With the increasing global emphasis on renewable energy, solar power has become one of the most promising sources of clean energy in India. The Indian government has launched several initiatives to promote the use of solar panels and encourage both domestic manufacturing and imports. However, to ensure that only high-quality and safe products reach consumers, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) mandates BIS Registration for Solar Panels under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS).
If you are a manufacturer, importer, or supplier of solar modules or photovoltaic products, obtaining BIS Registration is a crucial step for entering the Indian market. This certification guarantees that your products meet the required Indian quality and safety standards, protecting both consumers and the environment.
What is BIS Registration for Solar Panels?
BIS Registration is a certification issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), a national body responsible for setting quality and safety benchmarks for products sold in India. For solar photovoltaic (PV) modules, this registration ensures that the panels are tested and verified as per the applicable Indian Standard (IS).
The relevant standard for solar panels is:
- IS 14286:2010 – Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) Modules – Design Qualification and Type Approval.
This standard specifies the design qualification and type testing requirements for terrestrial PV modules, ensuring their long-term performance under various environmental conditions.
Why is BIS Registration Mandatory for Solar Panels?
The Government of India, through the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) and the Bureau of Indian Standards, has made BIS Registration mandatory for all solar PV modules to ensure product quality, reliability, and safety.
Here’s why this certification is so important:
- Quality Assurance:
BIS certification ensures that the solar panels are designed and manufactured according to Indian safety and performance standards. - Consumer Safety:
Poor-quality solar panels can lead to fire hazards, short circuits, or energy losses. BIS testing ensures the panels are safe for installation. - Market Legitimacy:
Only BIS-registered solar panels are allowed to be sold, imported, or installed in India under government and private projects. - Support for “Make in India” Initiative:
By enforcing strict quality standards, BIS promotes domestic manufacturing of reliable solar products. - Boost in Exports:
BIS-certified products gain higher trust in international markets, helping Indian manufacturers expand globally.
Products Covered Under BIS Registration
Under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS), the following types of solar panels and related products fall under BIS certification:
- Crystalline silicon terrestrial PV modules (IS 14286)
- Thin-film terrestrial PV modules (IS 16077)
- PV Module safety qualification (IS/IEC 61730 Part 1 & 2)
- Junction boxes, connectors, and cables (in specific cases)
Process of BIS Registration for Solar Panels
Obtaining BIS Registration involves several stages, including testing, documentation, and approval. Here’s a step-by-step overview of the process:
Step 1: Application Preparation
The manufacturer (domestic or foreign) must prepare the application with all required documents, such as:
- Product details and datasheets
- Factory license or registration certificate
- Test reports
- Authorization letter (if applying through an Indian representative)
Step 2: Product Testing
The product sample is tested in a BIS-recognized laboratory as per the applicable Indian standard (IS 14286 or others).
The test covers parameters such as:
- Performance in high and low temperatures
- Resistance to humidity and mechanical stress
- Electrical insulation and performance under solar radiation
Step 3: Submission of Application
After testing, the applicant submits the online application along with test reports and necessary documents to BIS through the Manak Online Portal.
Step 4: Review and Evaluation
BIS officials review the submitted documents and verify the authenticity of test reports. If required, BIS may request additional information or clarification.
Step 5: Grant of Registration
Once the application is approved, BIS issues a Registration Certificate allowing the manufacturer to use the Standard Mark with a unique Registration Number (R-number) on their products.
Documents Required for BIS Registration
Here’s a checklist of key documents required for the process:
- Factory business license or incorporation certificate
- Product technical specifications and datasheet
- Test report from a BIS-recognized lab
- Manufacturing process flowchart
- Brand authorization letter (for brand owners)
- Indian Authorized Representative (IAR) documents (for foreign manufacturers)
- Undertaking of conformity and quality assurance
Validity and Renewal of BIS Registration
The BIS Registration Certificate is valid for two years from the date of issuance. After expiry, it must be renewed by submitting updated documents and test reports. Renewal can be done for up to five years at a time, depending on product performance and compliance.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Selling or importing unregistered solar panels in India is a violation of BIS regulations. The consequences may include:
- Seizure of products by authorities
- Penalty or fines under the BIS Act 2016
- Legal action or cancellation of the business license
Therefore, all manufacturers and importers need to obtain BIS Registration before launching their solar products in the market.
How Indiannexus Helps with BIS Registration for Solar Panels
Indiannexus is a leading certification consultancy in India that offers end-to-end assistance for BIS Registration of Solar Panels. With years of experience in handling certification projects across industries, we make the registration process fast, reliable, and hassle-free.
Our services include:
- Product evaluation and standard identification
- Assistance in preparing documentation
- Coordination with BIS-recognized laboratories for testing
- Online application submission and follow-up with BIS officials
- Renewal and compliance support
We ensure full guidance throughout the certification journey — from the first step of documentation to final BIS approval — so that you can focus on your business without worrying about compliance delays.
Conclusion
The demand for solar energy is rapidly growing, and with it comes the responsibility to maintain product quality and reliability. BIS Registration of Solar Panels is not just a regulatory requirement—it’s a mark of excellence that ensures safety, durability, and performance of solar energy systems.
Partner with Indiannexus, your trusted BIS Certification Consultant in India, to simplify your certification journey. Our expert team will help you obtain BIS Registration quickly and efficiently so your products can confidently enter the Indian renewable energy market.
