BIS Certification for Switchgear and Controlgear Equipment Operating Above 1000 Volts

In today’s increasingly electrified world, high-voltage switchgear and controlgear equipment play an indispensable role in energy distribution, industrial operations, and infrastructure development. Designed for safe and reliable control of electricity at voltages exceeding 1000 volts, these systems are critical for minimizing risks and ensuring seamless power flow in high-demand applications. With rising concerns about electrical safety and equipment standardization, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has taken decisive steps to regulate this sector through the Scheme X Certification.

Let's explore the scope, necessity, and compliance process for BIS certification for switchgear and controlgear equipment operating above 1000 volts, providing stakeholders with all the insights required to meet India’s latest regulatory standards before the 28th August 2025 deadline.

What Is High-Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear?

High-voltage switchgear and controlgear refer to electrical apparatus that controls, protects, and isolates power systems above 1000 volts. These devices are fundamental in grid substations, large industrial plants, renewable energy systems, and transmission networks.

Key components include:

These components operate in electrically intensive environments, handling high fault currents, ensuring personnel safety, and maintaining equipment integrity under extreme conditions.

Introduction of BIS Scheme X Certification

To standardize the design, safety, and quality of such critical infrastructure equipment, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) introduced Scheme X Certification under the BIS Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018. This certification framework was launched on 16th March 2022 and is tailored for:

Recognizing the strategic importance of high-voltage systems in India’s energy and industrial ecosystems, the Ministry of Heavy Industries issued the Omnibus Technical Regulation Order, 2024, making Scheme X certification mandatory for all manufacturers of relevant equipment—both domestic and international—from 28th August 2025 onward.

Why BIS Certification Is Critical for High-Voltage Switchgear

The implementation of BIS certification for switchgear and controlgear equipment (above 1000V) is not merely a regulatory exercise—it’s a national safety priority.

Key reasons include:

Scope of BIS Scheme X for High-Voltage Equipment

The certification applies to:

Manufacturers, importers, OEMs, and system integrators must comply with the applicable standards for both the final product and its major components.

Certification Process: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Determine Applicability

Confirm whether your product falls under the BIS mandatory list as per Scheme X. Products with rated voltages above 1000V used in switching, controlling, or isolating electrical circuits are included.

2. Technical Documentation Preparation

This includes:

3. Application Filing

Apply on the BIS online portal, specifying Scheme X and attaching all supporting documentation.

4. Product Testing

Representative samples are submitted to BIS-recognized laboratories for testing as per relevant IS standards. Testing evaluates:

5. Factory Inspection

A BIS inspection team visits the manufacturing site to audit:

6. License Granting

Upon successful testing and inspection, BIS issues the Scheme X certification license, enabling manufacturers to affix the ISI mark.

Compliance Deadline

Benefits of BIS Scheme X Certification for High-Voltage Equipment 

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to obtain BIS certification for switchgear and controlgear equipment by the stipulated deadline can result in:

Conclusion

India’s push for quality, safety, and self-reliance in electrical infrastructure is gaining momentum through robust frameworks like the BIS Scheme X Certification. For manufacturers of high-voltage switchgear and controlgear equipment, the 28th August 2025 deadline is a significant milestone.

Early compliance not only ensures uninterrupted business but also boosts product trust, regulatory credibility, and market access. Whether you're a large OEM, EPC contractor, or system integrator, now is the time to begin the certification process and align with India’s future-ready infrastructure goals.

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