Required Certifications for Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium-Ion Batteries for the Indian Market: An Insight

Lithium-based batteries, including Lithium-Ion (Li-ion) and Lithium-Polymer (LiPo), have become the go-to choice for numerous portable applications due to their impressive energy density, lightweight design, and long cycle life. These batteries have powered the proliferation of modern consumer electronics, from smartphones and laptops to drones and electric vehicles. India’s lithium-ion battery market is growing at around 20–25% annually, with demand accelerating since 2021–22, driven by electric vehicle adoption, renewable energy storage, consumer electronics, and government incentives for clean energy technologies. There are several compliances that must be followed, such as the BIS CRS certificate and an EPR License.

Key Highlights 

What are the Required Certifications for Lithium-Ion Batteries to sell in India?

In order to gain market approval in India, Lithium-Ion Batteries must undergo BIS CRS Registration and EPR Certification for Batteries. Let’s discuss the procedure, documentation, and standards that are involved.

1. BIS CRS Registration for Lithium-Ion Batteries

BIS CRS registration ensures that Lithium-Ion Batteries meet safety and performance standards as per Indian regulations. It helps prevent risks like overheating, short-circuits, and fire hazards in consumer and industrial applications. Mandatory for market entry, it assures consumers of product reliability and regulatory compliance in India. Conformance with IS 16046:2018 is mandatory, and obtaining a BIS registration, mandatory for Lithium-Ion Batteries to sell in India, is a required compliance for businesses.

What will happen if you are selling without a CRS Registration certificate? Read here in detail.

2. EPR Certification for Batteries for Lithium-Ion Batteries

As these Lithium-Ion batteries become potential battery waste after their end of lifespan, it becomes important to manage the same by producers, importers, and businesses involved in battery-based products. Therefore, gaining an EPR license for battery waste becomes an essential step in the process. Therefore, an EPR certification, mandatory for Lithium-Ion Batteries to sell in the Indian market, is an unskippable aspect for the market.

What will happen if you are selling without an EPR license? Read here in detail.

How to Get the Certification for Lithium-Ion Batteries in India?

1. BIS CRS Registration

Documents for a BIS CRS Registration for Lithium-Ion Batteries

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has prescribed a list of documents that must be well-read and understood by applicants. The list of documents as mentioned and specified must be furnished to the authorities. Have a look at the list of prescribed documents to gain a BIS Registration:

1. Trademark / Brand Registration Certificate
2. Factory Address Proof
3. Product Test Report (BIS-approved lab)
4. PCB Layout & Critical Component List (CCL)
5. Product User Manual
6. AIR Appointment Letter (for foreign manufacturers)

Note: You can appoint Brand Liaison as your AIR

Process for BIS CRS License for Lithium-Ion Batteries

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has prescribed a dedicated format by which manufacturers and importers of all IT and Electronic products can easily apply for and gain a BIS registration. Have a look at the detailed process of acquiring a BIS CRS License:

1. Prepare Documents
2. Test Product
3. Apply Online
4. Grant of BIS CRS Registration 

2. EPR Certification for Batteries

Documents for EPR Certification for Lithium-Ion Batteries

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has specified a list of documents that must be thoroughly reviewed and submitted by applicants who are seeking EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) certification for battery waste management. These prescribed documents must be provided to the concerned authority to ensure that all regulatory requirements are properly met by manufacturers and importers of battery products, making them eligible to operate within the Indian market:

1. Basic documents related to the Firm / Company
2. Details of the authorised signatory
3. Product details and specifications
4. Plans and flowcharts for the collection and recycling of Battery
5. CTE/CTO consents, Agreement copies with dealers, recyclers, collection centres, disposal facilities, etc. 

Process for EPR Certificate for Lithium-Ion Batteries

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has outlined a dedicated format through which manufacturers and importers of battery products can apply for and obtain EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) certification for battery waste management. Here's a detailed overview of the process for acquiring an EPR Registration Certificate:

1. Prepare documents
2. Submit application
3. Review and verification
4. Grant of Certification

Certification Guidelines For CRS for Indian Manufacturers

• Ensure the product is under the BIS CRS Mandatory List and tested by a BIS-recognized lab.
• Prepare required documents and use the R-Number mark only after approval.
• Professional assistance can help simplify the process.

Certification Guidelines For CRS for Foreign Manufacturers

• Appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) as required by BIS.
• Get product testing done in a BIS-recognized lab in India and prepare documents.
• Submit the application through AIR for approval.

Need complete knowledge about the certification? Click to view the complete guidebook. 

Certification Guidelines For CRS for Indian Importers

• Importers cannot apply directly; only manufacturers are eligible for BIS CRS.
• Obtain and maintain the BIS license copy from the manufacturer.
• Can act as AIR if authorized by the manufacturer.

Certification Guidelines For CRS for Traders/Distributors

• Not eligible to apply directly; certification must be done by the manufacturer.
• Keep a copy of the BIS license for compliance.
• Can act as AIR if authorized.

 Certification Guidelines For CRS for Online Sellers

• Not eligible to apply directly; certification must be done by the manufacturer.
• Obtain a BIS license copy from the manufacturer for compliance.
• Ensure certification before listing products online.

Visit here to check your eligibility for Lithium-Ion Batteries for the Indian market now! 

Guidelines for EPR Certification for Lithium-Ion Batteries

For Producers

• Must register on the Central Pollution Control Board EPR portal before manufacturing or selling batteries.
• Obtain EPR approval and meet collection and recycling targets.
• Use only CPCB-authorized recyclers/refurbishers and file annual returns.

For Recyclers

• Must obtain CPCB authorization before starting operations.
• Accept batteries only from registered producers or authorized channels.
• Ensure safe recycling and issue recycling certificates.
• Submit annual returns and compliance reports on the CPCB portal.

Simplify your battery waste EPR obligations with professional guidance from Brand Liaison.

Brand Liaison: Simplifying Certification for Indian and Foreign Manufacturers

Brand Liaison is certainly the best product certification consultant that is helping businesses globally to seamlessly manage compliance and gain access to smooth and unhindered market entry in the Indian economy. We lead with a client-centric approach and ensure that the businesses are able to smoothly manage compliance in the Indian market. Let us understand why Businesses across the globe prefer our compliance and certification services: 

• We deliver expert guidance.
• We are a team of professionals with years of experience.
• We offer customised solutions.
• Cost-effective compliance management is our forte.
• We process applications quickly and efficiently.

Get in touch with Brand Liaison to ensure seamless compliance for your products in a hassle-free manner. Our team of experts will guide you on how to obtain the required certificates easily and stay ahead in the market. Call us today and streamline your compliance in the Indian economy.