BIS Registration for Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic Inverters
Utility-interconnected photovoltaic (PV) inverters under IS 16169:2014, IS 16221 (Part 2): 2015, and IS 17980:2022 are classified as regulated power conversion equipment that must comply with mandatory safety and grid-interconnection standards before being deployed in India. These inverters play a pivotal role in solar power systems by converting direct current (DC) generated by PV modules into grid-compatible alternating current (AC). Given their direct interface with utility grids and continuous operational demands, ensuring electrical safety, synchronization accuracy, and system stability is essential.
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) mandates certification for PV inverters to mitigate risks such as electrical faults, grid instability, overheating, and fire hazards. Compliance with these standards ensures adherence to stringent performance benchmarks, enabling seamless grid integration while enhancing system reliability and energy efficiency.
Indian Standards for Photovoltaic Inverters
Certification for photovoltaic inverters is based on multiple Indian Standards issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards.
IS 16169: 2014
This standard specifies requirements for grid-connected photovoltaic inverters to ensure safe and reliable operation.
IS 16221 (Part 2): 2015
This standard defines safety requirements for power converters, inverter systems, and electronic power equipment.
IS 17980: 2022
This standard covers performance and safety requirements for modern photovoltaic inverter systems used in renewable energy applications.
These standards must be followed to obtain CRS Certification for Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic Inverters and BIS License for Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic Inverters.
Who Needs BIS Certification under IS 16169:2014, IS 16221 (Part 2): 2015, and IS 17980:2022
BIS certification under these standards is mandatory for entities involved in the manufacturing, importing, or sale of utility-interconnected photovoltaic inverters in India. Compliance is required before these products can be legally introduced into the market or integrated into solar power systems.
Applicable to:
Manufacturers – Domestic and foreign manufacturers must obtain BIS certification prior to supply.
Importers – Importers must ensure that PV inverters 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 Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic Inverters is mandatory for manufacturers and importers.
Ensures Electrical Safety: Grid-connected inverters operate at high voltage, so certification ensures protection against shock, overheating, and electrical faults.
Maintains Product Quality: Compliance with IS 16169:2014, IS 16221 (Part 2):2015, and IS 17980:2022 ensures proper performance and durability.
Builds Market Confidence: Products with BIS Registration for Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic inverters are trusted by solar developers, government projects, and consumers.
Tests Performed
Before obtaining BIS registration for utility-interconnected photovoltaic inverters, the products undergo rigorous testing in BIS-recognized laboratories. The key tests include:
Electrical Safety Tests
Evaluates insulation resistance and protection against electric shocks.
Protection of Equipment Users
It refers to safety measures and standards designed to protect people from potential hazards while using electrical, electronic, or mechanical equipment, ensuring the products are safe and reliable for use
Performance Testing
Ensures safe connection with utility power supply.
Environmental Testing
Tests the device’s durability under different temperature and humidity conditions.
BIS Registration Process for Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic Inverters
The BIS registration process differs slightly for domestic and foreign manufacturers but broadly follows these steps:
For Foreign Manufacturers
For Domestic Manufacturers
Nominate an Indian Representative: A foreign manufacturer must appoint an Indian Representative with a valid business presence in India to handle the registration process for CRS Registration.
Submit Online Application: Domestic manufacturers directly apply on the BIS portal to begin the registration process.
Online Application Submission: The representative submits an application via the BIS portal, ensuring all details are accurate.
Sample Testing: Like foreign manufacturers, samples are tested at a BIS-recognized lab.
Sample Testing: samples are tested in a BIS-approved laboratory for compliance
Submit Application: A complete application, including test reports, is submitted to the BIS.
Submit Complete Application: The application, along with test reports and required documents, is submitted online or in hard copy.
BIS Verification: The BIS reviews technical and KYC documents.
BIS Verification: The BIS reviews technical and KYC documents.
License Grant: After successful verification, the BIS License for Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic Inverters issues for using the BIS CRS mark.
Grant of License: Upon successful verification, the BIS grants a license, allowing the use of the BIS CRS mark.
Documents Required for BIS CRS Registration
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
Conclusion
Compliance with IS 16169:2014, IS 16221 (Part 2): 2015, and IS 17980:2022 is essential for businesses dealing in utility-interconnected PV inverters in India. BIS certification ensures adherence to critical safety and grid compatibility standards, reducing risks such as electrical faults, instability, and system failures while improving operational efficiency. In the rapidly expanding solar infrastructure sector, certification not only fulfills regulatory requirements but also strengthens project reliability and stakeholder confidence.
EVTL India is one of the leading BIS consultants in India, helping manufacturers obtain their BIS licences hassle-free. With expert guidance, businesses can streamline certification processes, ensure compliance accuracy, and achieve faster approvals, enabling efficient and compliant integration of solar power systems.
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 leadingBIS consultants for utility-interconnected photovoltaic inverters, offering consultancy services to manufacturers and importers across India and globally.
Complete paperwork for BIS Registration for Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic Inverters
Testing support as per applicable IS standards
Liaison with the Bureau of Indian Standards
Updates regarding BIS Notification for Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic Inverters
Support from experienced BIS Agent for Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic Inverters
Guidance for certification under CRS scheme.
faq
1. Is BIS certification mandatory for PV inverters? Yes, BIS certification is mandatory before manufacturing, importing, or deploying utility-interconnected PV inverters in India.
2. Which standards apply to PV inverters? IS 16169:2014, IS 16221 (Part 2): 2015, and IS 17980:2022 govern safety, performance, and grid interconnection requirements.
3. Who can apply for BIS certification? Only manufacturers can apply; foreign manufacturers must appoint an AIR.
4. What risks are covered under these standards? They address risks like electrical faults, grid instability, overheating, 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.
