In a significant move towards harnessing the potential of solar energy, the Government of Haryana has introduced a revamped solar power policy, titled “Haryana Solar Power Policy 2023.” This progressive policy replaces the previous “Haryana Solar Power Policy 2016” and aims to expedite necessary amendments across various policies, rules, and regulations to promote the generation of solar power. Solar energy is emerging as a pivotal source of sustainable energy for the future, offering a pollution-free and green alternative. India, blessed with abundant solar energy potential, has set an ambitious target of achieving 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, with a substantial 280 GW dedicated to solar energy.
Under the Haryana Solar Policy 2023, the state has set an ambitious target to install a cumulative 6 GW of solar capacity by 2023. This includes 1.6 GW of rooftop solar power plants, 3.2 GW of ground-mounted solar power plants (with or without energy storage), and the solarization of irrigation pumps with a capacity of 1.2 GW.
The state of Haryana recognizes the importance of solar energy in combating the local and national impact of climate change. This renewable energy source not only promises to reduce the state’s expenditure on energy but also offers the potential to minimize transmission and distribution losses. The new policy framework is in alignment with the latest regulations and India’s ambitious solar energy capacity expansion program.
The “Haryana Solar Power Policy 2023” supersedes its predecessor, coming into effect immediately upon notification and remaining valid until the introduction of a new policy. The state government retains the flexibility to review and update the policy in response to technological advancements, any inconsistencies with the Electricity Act, or changes in government policies or the State Electricity Regulatory Commission’s orders.
Haryana is committed to increasing the share of solar power in its energy mix to align with national policies, programs, and targets. The policy seeks to create a conducive environment for both private and public sector participation in the establishment of solar energy projects. It encourages the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and concepts, including battery storage, renewable energy-based EV charging, net metering, gross metering, virtual net metering, and group net metering.
The policy also aims to improve the income of farmers by facilitating the installation of solar power plants for the sale of excess power. Furthermore, it introduces provisions for solar waste management, training and skill development, and research and development activities through a comprehensive learning ecosystem. Promotion of off-grid solar applications, such as solar water pumps and home lighting systems, is also a key aspect of the policy.
Ground-mounted solar power projects for the sale of power will be open to independent power producers, with or without energy storage and in conjunction with other renewable energy sources. The lowest competitive tariff, determined through bidding conducted by Haryana Power Purchase Centre (HPPC), SECI, or as allowed by Haryana Electricity Regulatory Commission (HERC), will serve as the base tariff.
To promote small-scale solar power generation, discoms may reserve 20% of the total capacity of ground-mounted solar power projects for generators with capacities up to 2 MW. Separate tenders will be floated for this reserved capacity, and tariffs will be decided based on the tender process.
The policy encourages the installation of solar power plants by entities for their own consumption, with no capacity limits. These plants can be set up anywhere in India, with power transmission facilitated through open access. Distribution licensees will continue to allow rooftop solar systems to eligible consumers, with the total capacity determined by the commission. The maximum rated capacity for eligible consumers will be based on connected load for low-tension connections and contract demand for high-tension connections. Net metering and gross metering arrangements will apply, with an emphasis on ensuring the cumulative capacity does not exceed 500 MW.
The policy promotes the development of solar energy-based EV charging infrastructure, following guidelines and standards issued by HERC regulations. Public EV charging stations are encouraged to integrate rooftop solar facilities, with discoms providing net metering connections. Charging stations are also mandated to register with relevant departments to ensure transparency and compliance with the policy.
The “Haryana Solar Power Policy 2023” underscores the state’s commitment to harnessing the potential of solar energy and contributing to India’s ambitious renewable energy goals while promoting sustainability, economic growth, and environmental protection.
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