With the rapid adoption of renewable energy sources, solar photovoltaic (PV) systems have emerged as a key player in India’s green energy transition. To ensure the safety, efficiency and quality of these systems and goods, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has notified a Quality Control Order after consulting with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to make BIS registration mandatory for various Solar Photovoltaic Systems, Devices and Components Goods under the Compulsory Registration Scheme. The BIS registration is crucial for manufacturers and suppliers, as it guarantees compliance with established Indian standards and ensures the reliability of solar products in the market.

Revised Quality Control Order for Solar Photovoltaic Systems, Devices, and Components Goods by MNRE

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has issued this Quality Control Order (QCO) on 27th January, 2025 in the Gazette of India under the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Act, 2016 to make BIS registration mandatory for Solar Photovoltaics Systems, Devices and Components under Compulsory Registration Scheme.

Short title and commencement:
(1) This Order may be called the “Solar Systems, Devices and Components Goods Order, 2025”.
(2) It shall come into force on the expiry of 180 days (6 months) from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.

Key highlights of this Quality Control Order:

1. Mandatory Standards:

• Solar PV modules, inverters, and storage batteries must comply with the latest Indian Standards (as specified by BIS) and carry the Standard Mark under a BIS license.
• Minimum efficiency requirements at Standard Test Conditions (STC) are introduced:
  • Mono Crystalline Silicon & Thin-Film PV Modules: 18%
  • Poly Crystalline Silicon PV Modules: 17%

2. Scope of Applicability:

• The order applies to manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers, sellers, and lessors of solar PV systems and components.
• Products exclusively meant for export are exempt from these regulations.

3. Certification & Compliance Oversight:

• BIS will be responsible for issuing licenses and enforcing compliance.
• Market surveillance will be conducted by BIS or an authorized agency in consultation with MNRE.

4. Existing Licenses & Transition:

• Licenses granted under the QCO, 2017 remain valid.
• Renewals and new registrations will be regulated as per QCO, 2025.

5. Penalty for Non-Compliance:

• Any breach of the order will result in penalties under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016.

6. Ensuring Quality & Safety:

• The updated regulations aim to ensure the availability of high-performance, reliable, and safe solar products in India’s rapidly growing renewable energy sector.

Conclusion

Compliance with BIS standards not only ensures consumer protection but also enhances the credibility of manufacturers in both domestic and international markets. With the implementation of the Quality Control Order, India aims to strengthen its renewable energy infrastructure and foster a market that prioritizes quality, safety and efficiency. Manufacturers or importers of Solar Photovoltaics Systems, Devices and Components Goods must proactively obtain BIS registration under the Compulsory Registration Scheme to align with government regulations and contribute to India’s sustainable energy future.

For further information, visit the official MNRE website: www.mnre.gov.in.

For BIS registration under Compulsory Registration Scheme or for any other information, Contact us today.
Email: satjindal@yahoo.co.in
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