BMC Proposes 2% Tax Rebate for Solar Panel Installations
In a significant move to promote sustainability and environmental conservation, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is considering offering a property tax rebate of up to 2 percent for housing societies and commercial establishments that install solar panels on their properties. The initiative is part of the civic body’s broader “Clean Society, Green Society” scheme, which incentivizes green practices in the city.
The proposed rebate is aimed at encouraging property owners to adopt solar energy systems and contribute to the city’s renewable energy goals. The BMC is currently evaluating the specifics of the plan and will seek the necessary approvals from the state government’s Urban Development Department, if required. Under the “Clean Society, Green Society” scheme, the BMC already provides rebates for housing societies that implement various sustainable practices. For example, societies that segregate and process wet waste receive a 5 percent rebate, and another 5 percent is offered for recycling dry waste within the premises. Additionally, a 5 percent rebate is also available for societies that use water from sewage treatment plants. The BMC has also incentivized rainwater harvesting systems, which became mandatory for buildings in 2006 under a state government regulation. Despite this mandate, many housing societies have not implemented the systems. To encourage compliance, the BMC offers a 2 percent rebate on property tax for societies that incorporate rainwater harvesting.
Now, the BMC is looking to further incentivize green energy adoption by extending a similar property tax rebate for societies and businesses that install solar panels. This initiative aims to reduce Mumbai’s carbon footprint and align with the city’s push for more sustainable living practices. A senior civic official confirmed that the proposal for solar panel incentives is under consideration and will likely be rolled out soon. This is expected to boost the adoption of solar energy across both residential and commercial establishments, significantly contributing to Mumbai’s sustainability efforts.
