India is rapidly expanding its solar energy sector, increasing the demand for high-quality and reliable solar photovoltaic (PV) modules. To ensure product safety, performance and quality, the Government of India has introduced mandatory BIS compliance requirements for notified solar products.
BIS Certification for Solar Panels in India helps manufacturers and businesses ensure that their products meet the applicable Indian Standards. It is important for Indian manufacturers and foreign manufacturers supplying solar panels to the Indian market.
BIS Certification for Solar Panels Explained
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is India’s national standards body responsible for developing product standards and implementing certification schemes.
Under the applicable Solar Systems, Devices and Components Quality Control Order (QCO), covered solar PV modules must comply with relevant Indian Standards and obtain the required BIS authorization before being sold in India.
The certification process involves product testing, document verification and compliance with applicable BIS requirements.
Who Needs BIS Certification?
BIS compliance is important for businesses involved in manufacturing and supplying regulated solar photovoltaic modules.
- Indian solar panel manufacturers
- Foreign solar panel manufacturers exporting to India
- Companies manufacturing solar modules under their own brand
- Importers dealing with regulated solar products.
- Businesses supplying solar PV modules to the Indian market.
The applicable requirements depend on the product category, manufacturing location and relevant Quality Control Order.
Applicable BIS Standards for Solar Panels
The following Indian Standards are important for solar photovoltaic module certification:
- IS 14286: Design qualification and type approval requirements for terrestrial photovoltaic modules.
- IS/IEC 61730-1: Safety qualification requirements related to PV module construction.
- IS/IEC 61730-2: Safety testing requirements for photovoltaic modules.
The applicable standard and edition depend on the solar module technology and current BIS product schedule. Manufacturers should verify the latest requirements before applying.
Documents Required for BIS Certification
Proper documentation is important for a smooth certification process. Commonly required documents include:
- Company registration certificate
- Manufacturing unit address proof.
- Product technical specifications and datasheet.
- Solar panel model numbers and photographs.
- Manufacturing process details.
- Bill of Materials (BOM).
- Product testing reports.
- Brand and trademark details, where applicable.
- Authorized signatory details.
- Authorization letter, wherever required.
- Additional declarations and documents requested by BIS.
Foreign manufacturers may also need to comply with the applicable Authorized Indian Representative requirements.
Step-by-Step BIS Certification Process
The general process for obtaining BIS Certification for Solar Panels includes:
- Identify Applicable Standards: Determine the correct Indian Standards according to the solar panel technology.
- Document Preparation: Arrange the required business, manufacturing and technical documents.
- Product Testing: Get the solar modules tested at an appropriately recognized BIS laboratory.
- Application Submission: Submit the application with the required documents and test reports.
- BIS Evaluation: BIS reviews the application and may request additional information or clarification.
- Approval: After fulfilling the applicable requirements, BIS processes the required registration or licence.
- Standard Marking: Use the BIS Standard Mark according to the approved
Latest Solar Panel Compliance Requirements in India
The Solar Systems, Devices and Components Goods Order, 2025 introduced updated compliance requirements for notified solar products.
The order specifies minimum efficiency requirements for solar PV modules:
- Monocrystalline silicon modules: 18%.
- Thin-film modules: 18%.
- Polycrystalline silicon modules: 17%.
These requirements are measured under Standard Test Conditions (STC). Manufacturers should also verify the applicable testing and safety requirements before placing their products in the Indian market.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many manufacturers face delays because of documentation and compliance-related mistakes. Some common issues include:
- Selecting the incorrect Indian Standard.
- Submitting incomplete technical documents.
- Providing incorrect manufacturing details.
- Using test reports that do not meet applicable requirements.
- Mismatch in product model numbers and brand details.
- Ignoring updated BIS regulations.
- Using the BIS Standard Mark without proper authorization.
Preparing documents correctly and checking the latest requirements can help avoid unnecessary delays.
Conclusion
BIS Certification for Solar Panels in India is an important requirement for manufacturers and businesses dealing with regulated solar photovoltaic modules. Understanding applicable standards, preparing the correct documents and completing product testing are essential steps in the certification process.
Induce India provides consultancy support for BIS certification, documentation preparation and regulatory compliance. Contact our team to understand the applicable requirements for your solar panel products and get professional assistance with the certification process.
