BIS Guidelines for Revised QCO (Utility-Interconnected PV Inverters)

Introduction to the BIS QCO Regarding Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic Inverters

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India, has notified the Solar Systems, Devices, and Components Goods Order, 2025, which revises the Quality Control requirements for Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic (PV) Inverters. This new Order supersedes the earlier Solar Photovoltaics, Systems, Devices and Components Goods (Requirements for Compulsory Registration) Order, 2017.

Under this revised QCO, the applicable standard for Utility-Interconnected PV Inverters has been updated from IS 16169:2014 / IEC 62116:2008 to IS 16169:2019 / IEC 62116:2014. In addition, a new standard, IS 17980:2022, related to Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) efficiency has also been made mandatory.

Key Changes of the QCO You Should Know

Under the revised QCO for Utility-Interconnected PV Inverters:

1. The applicable standard has been revised from IS 16169:2014 to IS 16169:2019.
2. The revised standard updates the test procedure for islanding prevention measures.
3. Voltage and frequency trip settings are now aligned with national regulations instead of manufacturer-defined limits.
4. A new standard, IS 17980:2022, has been introduced to measure the efficiency of Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) in grid-connected PV inverters.
5. All manufacturers must implement the revised standards and submit updated test reports within the prescribed timeline.
6. Non-compliant models will be removed from the scope of the BIS licence.

Guidelines for Implementation of the Revised QCO

Existing Licensees

Existing BIS licensees of Utility-Interconnected PV Inverters must:

• Apply online through the Standard Revision / Amendment / Essential Requirement module on the BIS portal.
• Submit test reports as per IS 16169:2019 for each lead model, covering islanding prevention requirements.
• Submit additional test reports as per IS 17980:2022 for MPPT efficiency for each lead model.
• Declare efficiency values for all lead and series models.
• Pay applicable BIS fees for extension or revision of the licence scope.
• For new models complying with IS 16169:2019, applications must be submitted through the Inclusion module.
• After successful compliance, BIS will issue a confirmation letter listing all compliant models.
• Models not complying with IS 16169:2019 and IS 17980:2022 will be deleted from the licence scope after the deadline.

Failure to take timely action may lead to licence expiry.

New Applicants

New applicants must:

• Submit applications along with test reports as per IS 16169:2019 and IS 17980:2022, in addition to IS 16221 (Part 2): 2015.
• Declare MPPT efficiency for each model, which will be verified through submitted test reports.
• Applications without test reports are permitted only up to 27 July 2025, provided a declaration is submitted confirming implementation of the revised QCO.
• After 27 July 2025, no new BIS licence will be granted without full compliance with the revised standards.

Change in Scope of License

For inclusion of additional models under an existing licence:

• Applications must be submitted with test reports as per IS 16169:2019, IS 17980:2022, and IS 16221 (Part 2): 2015.
• Inclusions based on old standards or without IS 17980:2022 test reports are allowed only up to 27 July 2025, with a declaration.

Existing licensees must not use the Inclusion module to update already registered models to the revised standards and must follow the standard revision process instead.

What is the Date of Implementation?

The revised Quality Control requirements under the Solar Systems, Devices, and Components Goods Order, 2025, will be implemented as per the timelines notified by MNRE.

The last date for submitting applications or inclusions without complete test reports is 27 July 2025.

After this date, full compliance with IS 16169:2019 and IS 17980:2022 becomes mandatory.

Now, What to Do?

Manufacturers and applicants dealing with Utility-Interconnected PV Inverters should:

• Identify whether their products fall under the revised QCO
• Arrange testing as per IS 16169:2019 and IS 17980:2022 through approved laboratories
• Submit applications, declarations, and test reports within the prescribed timeline
• Ensure only compliant models remain in the BIS licence scope
• Use the BIS Standard Mark only after meeting all revised QCO requirements
• Early action will help avoid licence cancellation, model deletion, and delays in market access.

Brand Liaison supports manufacturers and importers in implementing revised QCO requirements for utility-interconnected photovoltaic inverters, including BIS application filing, test report coordination, declaration drafting, licence revision, and scope management. With strong experience in MNRE and BIS regulations, Brand Liaison ensures smooth compliance and uninterrupted market access in India.