Delhi to generate 1,000 MW solar power by 2019

New Delhi, Nov 3 : Delhi will generate 1,000 megawatt (MW) of solar power by 2019 which will also help bring down electricity rates, state Health Minister Satyendra Jain said on Friday.

"During the peak hours, there is a demand of about 6,500 MW and during the non-peak hours, it comes down to 3,500 MW. By 2019, Delhi will start producing 1,000 MW of clean energy," Jain told media here. 

"All the three discoms of Delhi have been finally been convinced about this after the government spoke to them for about five to six months," he said.

About five lakh people will benefit from this, he said. 

Jain said that fossil fuel power plants that burn carbon fuels such coal, oil or gas to generate electricity produce huge amounts of pollution and thus there is a need to use clean energy. 

He also said the solar power project would help in lowering electricity rates in the city, where Rs 5.95 per unit is charged for consumption between 210 and 400 units. 

"We are expecting these rates to go down to Rs 3 per unit," Jain said, adding that solar pumps will be available at subsidised for the farmers here.

"Domestic electricity meter installation for small businesses open in homes in residential areas, with connections from 0 to 5 KW, will be considered," he added. 

Delhi was the second-most polluted major city in the world, as per a WHO study last year.