BIS Certification for Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) Modules

Indian Standard IS 16077: 2013

IS 16077: 2013 is an Indian Standard issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards that defines safety and performance requirements for thin film photovoltaic modules used in solar energy systems.

This standard includes requirements related to:

• Electrical safety
• Mechanical strength
• Environmental durability
• Temperature and humidity resistance
• Insulation and dielectric strength
• Performance under different weather conditions
• Proper marking and labeling

Compliance with this standard is required to obtain CRS Certification for thin film PV modules and BIS License for thin film PV modules.

Who Needs BIS Certification under IS 16077:2013

BIS certification under IS 16077:2013 is mandatory for entities involved in the manufacturing, importing, or sale of thin-film terrestrial photovoltaic (PV) modules in India. Compliance is required before these products can be legally introduced into the market or deployed in solar projects.

Applicable to:

• Manufacturers—Domestic and foreign manufacturers must obtain BIS certification prior to supply.

• Importers – Importers must ensure that thin-film PV modules are BIS-certified before entering the Indian market.

• Project Developers / Brand Owners – Entities deploying or selling under their brand must ensure compliance, even if manufacturing is outsourced.

Basic Requirements

There are four key factors on which a BIS Licence is based. Without fulfilling these requirements, an applicant cannot apply for BIS Certification/Registration in India. To obtain BIS registration, the following conditions must be met:

• Manufacturer: The BIS licence is issued only to the manufacturer, not to traders, importers, or distributors. However, in the case of foreign manufacturers, an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) can submit the application on their behalf. The final licence is always granted in the name of the manufacturer.
• Manufacturing Location:The exact manufacturing address must be clearly mentioned in the application and supporting documents. If a manufacturer operates multiple production units for the same product, a separate BIS licence is required for each manufacturing location.
• Product:BIS registration is granted product-wise. Each product category requires a separate licence. However, if a product has multiple models under the same category, one licence can cover all those models .
• Brand or Trademark: Every brand name or trademark must have its own BIS licence. If the same product is sold under different brands, separate licences are required for each brand or trademark.

Importance of BIS Certification

Obtaining BIS Certification for thin film PV modules is mandatory for manufacturers and importers.

• Ensures Electrical Safety: Thin film PV modules generate electrical energy continuously, so certification ensures protection against electric shock, overheating, and insulation failure.
• Maintains Product Quality:Compliance with IS 16077: 2013 ensures that the module meets required safety and performance standards.
• Mandatory under QCO: According to BIS QCO for thin film PV modules, these products cannot be sold in India without BIS approval.
• Builds Market Confidence: Products with BIS Registration for thin film PV modules gain trust from solar project developers, government agencies, and customers.

Tests Performed

Before obtaining BIS registration for thin-film PV modules, the products undergo rigorous testing in BIS-recognized laboratories. The key tests include:

BIS Registration Process for Thin-Film PV Modules

The BIS registration process differs slightly for domestic and foreign manufacturers but broadly follows these steps:

Documents Required BIS CRS Registration

For CRS registration for thin film PV modules, the following documents are required.

General Documents:

• BIS application form.
• GST Certificate
• MSME certificate
• Authorized person Aadhaar
• Company PAN Card
• Contact Details
• Trademark Certificate (Class 9,11)

Additional Documents for Foreign Manufacturers:

• AIR (All India Representative) Details
• Trademark Certificate (Class 9,11)
• Application form 1.
• Authorized representative's photo ID.
• Business license (original + English translation).

Technical Documents:

• CCL (Critical Component List)
• CDF Form
• Product Marking Plate
• Product Manual
• Product Diagram

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with BIS regulations may result in:

• Confiscation of non-certified power banks
• Heavy penalties and fines
• Suspension or cancellation of registration
• Legal action under the BIS Act
• Restriction on import or sale in India

Non-compliance can significantly impact market access and brand reputation.

Timeline and Validity of BIS CRS Registration

Timeline:The timeline for obtaining BIS registration under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) generally ranges from 20 to 30 working days, depending on factors such as product testing, documentation accuracy, and application verification. The process begins with testing the product in a BIS-recognized laboratory, followed by online application submission, document verification, and approval from BIS authorities.

Validity:The BIS CRS registration for thin film PV modules is typically valid for 2 years. After this period, manufacturers or importers must apply for renewal of the BIS licence to continue manufacturing, importing, or selling the product in the Indian market. Renewal can be granted for up to 5 years, provided the product continues to comply with the applicable BIS standards and regulatory requirements.

Conclusion

Compliance with IS 16077:2013 is essential for businesses dealing in thin-film photovoltaic modules in India. BIS certification ensures adherence to critical safety and performance standards, reducing risks such as electrical faults, environmental degradation, and system inefficiencies while improving long-term reliability. In the evolving solar energy landscape, certification not only fulfills regulatory requirements but also strengthens investor confidence and project credibility.

EVTL India is one of the leading BIS consultants in India, helping manufacturers obtain their BIS licences hassle-free. With expert assistance, businesses can streamline certification processes, ensure compliance accuracy, and achieve faster approvals, enabling efficient and compliant deployment of solar energy solutions.

End-to-End Assistance from EVTL India

From legal compliance and product testing to documentation and approval, EVTL India provides complete certification support. We are among the leading BIS Consultant for thin film PV modules and CRS Consultant for thin film PV modules, offering consultancy services to manufacturers and importers across India and globally.

1. Complete paperwork for BIS Registration for thin-film PV modules
2. Testing support as per IS 16077: 2013
3. Liaison with the Bureau of Indian Standards
4. Updates regarding BIS Notification for thin film PV modules
5. Support from experienced BIS Agent for thin-film PV modules
6. Guidance for certification under the CRS scheme.

faq

1. Is BIS certification mandatory for thin-film PV modules?
Yes, BIS certification is mandatory before manufacturing, importing, or deploying these modules in India.

2. Which standard applies to thin-film photovoltaic modules?
IS 16077:2013 governs safety and performance requirements for these modules.

3. Who can apply for BIS certification?
Only manufacturers can apply; foreign manufacturers must appoint an AIR.

4. What risks are covered under this standard?
It addresses risks like electrical faults, insulation degradation, environmental stress, and fire hazards.

5. How long does the certification process take?
Typically 20–30 working days, depending on testing and documentation.

6. What is the validity of BIS certification?
The certification is valid for 2 years and renewable thereafter up to 5 years.