Delhi is moving forward with a carbon credit plan that could turn public green projects into revenue. The government has invited tenders to empanel advisory agencies that will identify eligible projects, assess their emissions reductions, and prepare documentation for verification under recognized carbon standards. The plan covers electric buses, tree planting, waste management, renewable energy, and energy efficiency, with an initial estimate of 2.5 to 3 crore tonnes of CO2e annually, though that figure is indicative and not yet confirmed. The success hinges on credible measurement and verification. Each project needs a defined baseline, proper monitoring, and independent validation before credits can be sold. The revenue from credit sales will go into Delhi's Consolidated Fund, but details on how proceeds are allocated or used are still unclear. The plan could establish a common accounting framework across departments, but it will also expose gaps in data systems and coordination. Whether this becomes a real revenue stream or just an accounting exercise depends on the quality of evidence and transparency in the process.
