The Union Territory of Chandigarh has made significant strides in reducing its carbon footprint by achieving 100% net-zero energy consumption in all 6,624 government buildings through the installation of rooftop solar panels. The combined capacity of these solar panels is 52.85 MWp, capable of generating 52.85 million units of solar power. The Chandigarh administration has also set a goal to achieve 100% rooftop solar panel saturation on all private buildings by December this year, with a target of generating 224 MW of solar energy by 2030.
The administration has implemented various initiatives to promote renewable energy, including the National Solar Mission, which has led to the installation of 89.69 MWp of rooftop solar power capacity across 10,988 sites. This has helped reduce carbon emissions by approximately 18.64 lakh metric tonnes and has generated 270.26 million units of electricity.
The administration has also taken steps to promote clean energy adoption at the household level through the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana scheme, which offers financial subsidies for rooftop solar systems. Under this scheme, 637 rooftop solar panels have been installed, and the administration has achieved a major milestone by installing rooftop solar systems on 6,247 government residential houses.
In addition, the administration has launched an EV Policy, which has accelerated the adoption of electric vehicles in the UT. As of January 31 this year, 14,315 electric vehicles have been registered in Chandigarh.
The initiatives taken by the administration have not only reduced carbon emissions and electricity costs but have also enhanced energy security and sustainability education among students. The administration’s efforts have made Chandigarh a leader in the adoption of renewable energy and has set an example for other cities to follow.