The Chandigarh Municipal Corporation has announced the launch of a rent-a-roof model to install rooftop solar panels on its buildings, as part of its broader push towards renewable energy and sustainable urban development.

Under the scheme, the rooftops of municipal buildings will be leased to private solar developers. These firms will handle the installation, operation, and maintenance of solar photovoltaic systems while feeding the generated power into the grid.

In return, the developers will pay rent to the Municipal Corporation for the rooftop space, ensuring no upfront capital expenditure by the civic body. This model not only provides the city with lease-based revenue but also promotes the generation of clean energy.

The initiative is designed to reduce Chandigarh’s reliance on conventional energy sources and support the integration of renewable power into urban infrastructure. Already regarded as a frontrunner in sustainable city planning, Chandigarh further reinforces its eco-friendly image with this move.

The rent-a-roof model, already proven successful in other parts of India, is viewed as an efficient way to scale solar energy adoption in cities where land availability is limited. By leveraging idle rooftop spaces, the project supports both energy efficiency and financial sustainability.

This step aligns with the central government’s broader renewable energy goals and supports Chandigarh’s ambition to become a solar-powered smart city.

News source: EQ