In a promising push toward green infrastructure, the Delhi government is planning to install solar panels over the Munak Canal—a move designed to address both rising electricity demand and water scarcity. The project combines clean energy generation with evaporation control, helping the city conserve its limited resources in an increasingly climate-stressed environment.
Why the Munak Canal?
The Munak Canal is one of Delhi’s key water sources, channeling treated water from Haryana into the national capital. However, the canal also suffers significant water loss—especially during peak summer—due to direct sunlight and evaporation. By installing solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on elevated structures over the canal, the government hopes to tackle this issue while generating sustainable electricity.
According to a senior official from the Delhi Jal Board:
“This project is about making our water infrastructure smarter and more sustainable. We’re not just conserving water—we’re also tapping into solar power.”
Project Details
The initiative will be implemented in collaboration with the Indraprastha Power Generation Company Limited (IPGCL) and the Delhi Jal Board (DJB).
Key details include:
- Pilot Coverage: 500 meters to 1 kilometer along the Delhi stretch of the Munak Canal.
- Execution Partner: IPGCL, with technical feasibility under review.
- Technology: Elevated canal-top solar PV panels that allow water flow beneath and generate electricity on top.
- Objective: Reduce evaporation loss and produce clean power for municipal use or grid distribution.
How Canal-Top Solar Panels Work
Instead of installing solar panels on traditional rooftops or ground-level arrays, canal-top installations make use of linear water bodies. This has three major advantages:
- No land use conflict – especially in urban areas where real estate is expensive.
- Water conservation – panels reduce direct sunlight on the water, slowing down evaporation.
- Improved efficiency – the water below naturally cools the panels, increasing power output.
Such systems have already shown promising results in Gujarat, where similar installations on the Narmada Canal led to both water savings and increased panel efficiency.
Delhi’s Larger Sustainability Push
This project aligns with Delhi’s broader environmental goals, including:
- Increasing the share of renewable energy in the city’s power mix.
- Reducing strain on groundwater by minimizing water loss from canals.
- Optimizing infrastructure through multi-use designs.
A Delhi-based climate researcher noted:
“This is urban innovation at its best—taking something we already have and making it more useful without added environmental stress.”
Lessons from Other States
Delhi isn’t the first to explore this model. Gujarat and Punjab have successfully launched canal-top solar pilots that deliver both energy and environmental returns. However, Delhi’s dense urban layout and heavy water dependence make this initiative especially critical.
Delhi will also be watching closely for:
- Performance metrics (e.g., how much energy and water is saved)
- Maintenance logistics
- Potential scalability to other water bodies in the city
What’s Next?
The project is currently in the feasibility stage, with technical surveys underway. Once approved, tenders will likely be floated for execution. The pilot’s success could pave the way for similar solar coverage on other canals and drains in the region.
Delhi may also explore public-private partnerships (PPP) to finance, install, and maintain these installations at scale.
FAQs
What is the Munak Canal solar panel project?
It’s a Delhi government initiative to install solar photovoltaic panels over parts of the Munak Canal. The goal is to generate renewable electricity while reducing water loss due to evaporation.
Why was the Munak Canal selected for this solar project?
The canal is one of Delhi’s primary water sources. Installing solar panels overhead helps conserve water and makes use of available linear space for clean energy generation.
How much of the canal will be covered?
The initial pilot phase will cover around 500 meters to 1 kilometer of the canal. Expansion plans depend on feasibility reports and pilot results.
What are the expected benefits of this project?
- Reduction in water evaporation
- Renewable electricity production
- Better land use efficiency
- Reduced urban heat and environmental stress
Who is implementing the project?
The project is a joint effort between the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) and the Indraprastha Power Generation Company Limited (IPGCL).
Will this affect water flow or public access?
No. The solar panel installation will be elevated and designed to allow unimpeded water flow. There are no plans to restrict public access to surrounding areas.
Are there similar projects in other Indian states?
Yes. Gujarat and Punjab have implemented successful canal-top solar projects that have demonstrated energy efficiency and water savings.