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.
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.”
The initiative will be implemented in collaboration with the Indraprastha Power Generation Company Limited (IPGCL) and the Delhi Jal Board (DJB).
Key details include:
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:
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.
This project aligns with Delhi’s broader environmental goals, including:
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.”
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:
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.
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.
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.
The initial pilot phase will cover around 500 meters to 1 kilometer of the canal. Expansion plans depend on feasibility reports and pilot results.
The project is a joint effort between the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) and the Indraprastha Power Generation Company Limited (IPGCL).
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.
Yes. Gujarat and Punjab have implemented successful canal-top solar projects that have demonstrated energy efficiency and water savings.
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