NEW DELHI: In yet another round of tussle between the Delhi government and Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena, the former has alleged the latter is stopping the solar policy from being implemented before the imposition of the Model Code of Conduct.
Saying that the L-G should not play politics, the government said that he must not forget the dignity of his constitutional position and should work in the interest of the citizens.
Delhi Power Minister Atishi alleged that the L-G is obstructing the AAP dispensation’s Solar Policy to ensure that it is not notified before the enforcement of the model code of conduct for the Lok Sabha polls.
Power Minister Atishi said, “On January 29, the cabinet passed the Delhi Solar Policy. This policy was appreciated as the best and most progressive policy across India. The new policy has the provision of providing a `0.00 electricity bill to even those consumers who use above 400 units.” She added that at present, the government provides free electricity for up to 200 units and 50 per cent subsidy for consumption of 201-400 units.
She said, “Another important provision was that if someone installs a solar panel on their rooftop, the government will pay them for generating each unit of electricity. It meant that not only will consumers generate solar power for their consumption, but will also earn by generating extra units of solar power.”
She added, “Despite the increase in electricity consumption, we are targeting that by 2027, 20 per cent of electricity will be generated through solar power plants. This is expected to be more than any other state across the country.”
Earlier, the Delhi Assembly also passed a censure motion over the Lt Governor’s alleged obstruction of the policy.
She added that it is a matter of grave concern that such a fine policy in the interest of the people and environment was put on hold. The power department followed up with the L-G office multiple times as the government needed to notify the policy and when he could not delay the file any longer; he raised irrelevant queries and objections against it.