Chandigarh MC Unveils Innovative Rent-a-Roof Solar Initiative

Chandigarh Municipal Corporation is launching a rent-a-roof model to install rooftop solar panels on its buildings. Private solar developers will lease rooftops to the corporation, who will install, operate, and maintain the systems. The city will pay rent for the space, reducing capital expenditure. The initiative aims to reduce reliance on conventional energy sources and integrate renewable power into urban infrastructure. This aligns with the central government’s renewable energy goals and Chandigarh’s goal to become a solar-powered smart city. ampacity, targeting an addition of 20–30 MW over the next few years. (Ministry of Power)

The Municipal Corporation of Chandigarh has rolled out a transformative Rent-a-Roof Solar Initiative aimed at accelerating the adoption of solar energy in the city. This progressive step aligns with Chandigarh’s goal to become a model solar city and reinforces its commitment to clean and sustainable urban development. Under this scheme, the municipal body invites residential, commercial, and institutional property owners to lease their rooftops for the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. This program is expected to be a game-changer in urban renewable energy infrastructure. (Solar Project)

Program Overview

The initiative allows property owners to rent their rooftops to solar power developers, who will then install and maintain solar panels at no cost to the owner. In return, the rooftop owner receives a fixed monthly rent. The energy generated will either be fed into the grid under a net metering system or used for government or public utility buildings nearby. This model supports both grid-connected and standalone systems, encouraging wider community participation. Similar models have been adopted in cities like Pune and Bengaluru, but Chandigarh’s version focuses strongly on public-private partnerships (PPPs).

Eligibility and Participation

The scheme is open to all buildings with structurally stable rooftops and adequate sunlight exposure. The civic body will shortlist applicants based on the rooftop’s orientation, shadow-free area, and structural viability. Government buildings, schools, hospitals, and residential societies can all apply. Interested citizens can submit their proposals through the official Chandigarh MC portal or approach the Renewable Energy Department directly. You can also read about other government solar initiatives in India for context.

Environmental Impact

This initiative is expected to add several megawatts of clean energy to the city’s grid and significantly cut down on fossil fuel consumption. Chandigarh already has a strong foundation in rooftop solar infrastructure, and this move is projected to boost its renewable capacity by 20–30% over the next two years. The MC also hopes this will help meet the Smart Cities Mission targets, under which energy efficiency is a core mandate. Citizens leasing rooftops not only earn passive income but also contribute directly to climate action.

Implementation and Funding

The Chandigarh Renewable Energy and Science & Technology Promotion Society (CREST) will serve as the nodal agency for the project, ensuring quality standards, compliance, and post-installation support. The project is backed by central government subsidies under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) and additional funds from the UT administration. Learn more about how solar net metering works in Chandigarh to understand how energy credits will be handled.

Conclusion

By launching this Rent-a-Roof Solar Initiative, Chandigarh MC has set a precedent for community-driven clean energy adoption. With the added financial incentives, ease of participation, and institutional support, the program is likely to attract widespread interest from citizens and organizations alike. This move not only strengthens Chandigarh’s sustainability credentials but also makes a strong case for scalable rooftop solar programs in other Indian cities.