BIS Guidelines for Implementation of Revised QCO for Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Modules

Introduction to the BIS Quality Control Amendment Order for Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Modules

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has notified the Solar Systems, Devices, and Components Goods Order, 2025, which replaces the earlier 2017 order. Under this new Quality Control Order (QCO), revised BIS standards for Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Modules have been made mandatory for manufacturers and importers operating in India.

The revised standards mainly cover design qualification, performance testing, and safety requirements for both crystalline silicon and thin-film PV modules. All manufacturers are required to shift to these updated standards within the specified timeline to continue selling their products in the Indian market.

Key Changes of the QCO You Should Know

As per the new QCO and BIS guidelines:

1. The general requirements for Solar PV modules are now covered under IS 14286 (Part 1): 2023 / IEC 61215-1: 2021
2. Separate sections under IS 14286 (Part 1) apply to:
   1. Crystalline silicon PV modules
   2. Thin-film PV modules such as CdTe, a-Si, and Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)₂
3. Safety standards have been updated to IS/IEC 61730-1: 2016 and IS/IEC 61730-2: 2016
4. A minimum efficiency requirement at Standard Test Conditions (STC) has been introduced for grant of a licence
5. Laboratories must report:
   1. Maximum power output (W)
   2. Module area (m²)
   3. Calculated efficiency (%)
6. Series formation and changes in the Bill of Materials (BOM) must follow:
   1. Clause 4 of IS 14286 (Part 1): 2023
   2. IS/IEC TS 62915
7. All manufacturers must implement the revised standards within the timeline mentioned in the QCO

Guidelines for Implementation of the Revised QCO

Existing Licensees of Solar PV Modules

Existing licence holders must take the following actions:

1. All models have to be grouped in their scope and abide by the specified criteria.
2. As per IS 14286 (Part 1): 2023, the series formation and consideration of changes in BOM shall be as per Cl 4 of IS 14286 (Part 1) and IS/IEC TS 62915, respectively.
3. Apply online through the Standard Revision / Amendment / Essential Requirement module with complete test reports
4. New models meeting the revised standards must be added through the Inclusion module
5. After the deadline:
   1. Models complying with old standards will be removed from the licence
   2. If no models comply, the licence may expire

New Applicants for Solar PV Modules

For new manufacturers and applicants:

• Applications can be submitted with test reports as per the revised standards
• Applications based on old standards will be accepted only up to 27 July 2025, along with a declaration to implement the revised QCO
• After 27 July 2025, no new licence will be granted without full compliance with the revised standards

Change in Scope of Licence

For inclusion of additional models:

• Inclusion applications must be submitted with complete test reports as per the revised standards
• Series models cannot be included unless the representative model already complies with the revised standards
• Inclusion based on old standards will be permitted only until 27 July 2025, with a declaration
• Existing licensees must not use the Inclusion module for standard revision of already registered models

What is the Date of Implementation?

The revised Quality Control Order under the Solar Systems, Devices and Components Goods Order, 2025 is already notified.

• Applications under the old standards are permitted only until 27 July 2025
• From 28 July 2025 onwards, compliance with the revised BIS standards is mandatory for all Solar PV modules

Now, What to Do?

Manufacturers and importers of Solar PV modules should:

• Review the revised BIS standards applicable to their products
• Identify representative and series models as per the new guidelines
• Plan testing with BIS-recognized laboratories
• File applications or amendments well before the deadline
• Ensure only compliant models remain in the licence scope

Timely action will help avoid licence cancellation, product delisting, and disruption in market access.

Brand Liaison provides specialized compliance support for manufacturers and importers of electronics and IT products, including BIS CRS registration, standard applicability checks, testing coordination, documentation assistance, and regulatory liaison. With over 10 years of experience in BIS and CRO compliance, Brand Liaison helps businesses align smoothly with extended timelines while ensuring full regulatory adherence in India.