BIS/CRS QCO for Solar Systems, Devices, and Components Goods

Introduction to the BIS QCO for Solar Systems, Devices, and Components Goods

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has issued a new Quality Control Order (QCO) for Solar Systems, Devices, and Components Goods, superseding the earlier Solar Photovoltaic Systems, Devices and Components Goods (Requirements for Compulsory Registration) Order, 2017.

This new order has been notified under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016, after consultation with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). The objective of this QCO is to ensure the safety, quality, and performance of solar photovoltaic products being manufactured, imported, or sold in India.

• The order is titled as the Solar Systems, Devices and Components Goods Order, 2025.
• It will come into force after 180 days from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.

Key Changes of the QCO You Should Know

1. Under this QCO, the specified solar goods must:
   1. Conform to their respective Indian Standards (IS)
   2. Bear the BIS Standard Mark (ISI Mark)
   3. Obtain a licence from BIS under Scheme-II of BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018
2. Products Covered Under the QCO:
   1. Crystalline Silicon Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) Modules
   2. Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) Modules
   3. Storage Batteries for Solar PV Applications
   4. Power Inverters for Photovoltaic Power Systems
   5. Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic Inverters

Exemptions to this QCO

• Goods meant exclusively for export are exempted from this order. (View the product and IS list in the attached PDF for the QCO below.)
• Existing Licences:
  • Existing licences granted under the as per the provisions of Solar Photovoltaic Systems, Devices, and Component Goods (Requirements for Compulsory registration) Order 2017. will remain valid.
  • After expiry, fresh registration or renewal must be obtained under the 2025 Order.

Penalties:

1. BIS shall be the certifying and enforcing authority.
2. Any violation of this order will attract penalties under the BIS Act, 2016.
3. The designated authority has the power to issue directions and seek information from manufacturers, importers, and sellers.

New Efficiency Requirement Introduced

The QCO introduces minimum efficiency criteria for Solar PV modules at Standard Test Conditions (STC):

• 18% efficiency for Mono-crystalline Silicon and Thin-Film PV Modules
• 17% efficiency for Poly-crystalline Silicon PV Modules

What is the Date of Implementation?

The Solar Systems, Devices and Components Goods Order, 2025 will come into force after 180 days from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette, i.e., from 27 January 2025.

Manufacturers and importers must ensure compliance before the effective date to continue business operations without disruption.

Now, What to Do?

Manufacturers, importers, and suppliers of solar PV products should:

• Identify whether their products are covered under this QCO
• Review applicable Indian Standards
• Initiate BIS certification under Scheme-II
• Ensure compliance with efficiency and safety requirements
• Plan a timely transition from the 2017 Order to the 2025 Order

Early preparation will help avoid delays, penalties, and supply chain disruptions.

Brand Liaison offers complete compliance support for solar product manufacturers and importers, including BIS certification under QCO/CRS, product testing coordination, documentation preparation, efficiency compliance advisory, licence management, and regulatory liaison. With 10+ years of experience in BIS and renewable energy compliance, Brand Liaison ensures smooth certification and uninterrupted market access for solar businesses in India.