AC Static Transformer Operated Watthour and Var-hour Meters are used for accurate measurement of electrical energy in the power distribution system. They have been developed to offer accurate energy measurements regardless of the load conditions. The energy meter class is suitable for use in industrial environments and power measuring equipment. Accurate energy measurements make these meters useful in modern energy management systems.
To ensure the accuracy of these meters, the Bureau of Indian Standards has drafted the requirements under IS 14697: 2021. This Indian standard guarantees that these meters meet the necessary specifications in regard to measurement accuracy and electrical safety. Manufacturers are required to obtain a product license to sell such meters to Indian customers.
What is IS 14697: 2021?
This is the Indian Standard for AC Static Transformer Operated Watthour meters used for accurate measurement of electrical energy. In order to ensure that the meters are safe for use, a few requirements need to be met. As per the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards), smart meters are:
- Tested for accuracy
- Checked for power consumption limits
- Verified for insulation resistance
- Evaluated for electromagnetic compatibility
Eligibility for Static Transformer Energy Meters BIS License
BIS authorisation under IS 14697: 2021 is required for businesses involved in manufacturing, importing, or supplying a Var-hour meter in India.
Applicable to:
- Manufacturers (India) - Must get BIS approval if the class energy meters are covered under QCO.
- Foreign Manufacturers - Need certification to export the product to India.
- Importers/Brand Owners - Must ensure that the watt-hour meter is BIS-certified before selling.
- Sellers/Distributors - Should only sell certified smart energy meters.
Testing and Inspection Requirements
To ensure the safety of AC Static Transformer Operated, the Bureau of Indian Standards outlines the minimum requirements under IS 14697: 2021. This certification ensures that manufacturers must meet the accuracy standard. It also ensures that the meters deliver precise energy measurement under varying load conditions. The BIS testing parameters and quality checks for the Class 0.1S, 0.2S and 0.5S meters are listed below:
Steps for Transformer Operated Energy Meters BIS Approval
The BIS Authorisation process ensures that the transformer-operated meter meets the required standards for proper and efficient operation. This process is set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and includes the following steps:
- Online Registration: Manufacturers register on the BIS Manak portal by submitting company, factory, and product details. Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR).
- Testing at BIS-Approved Laboratory: Product samples are tested in BIS-approved laboratories for measurement accuracy, electrical performance, and insulation strength.
- Application Submission: The application is submitted along with test reports, technical documents, and factory details. Foreign manufacturers must also submit AIR-related documents.
- Factory Inspection: BIS officials inspect the manufacturing units to verify the production process, safety measures, and quality control system.
- Grant of BIS License : If all the above requirements are satisfactorily met, BIS grants the certification license under Scheme-I.
- Use of ISI Mark: Once approved, the manufacturer can affix the ISI mark on the product with a CM/L number, confirming that the product meets BIS standards.
Required Documents for IS 14697: 2021 Certification
| Document Category | Foreign Manufacturer Requirement |
|---|
| Basic Details | GST Certificate, Email ID & Contact Number, Factory & Office Address, Rent Agreement / Lease Deed (if applicable),Partnership Deed (if applicable for partnership firms) |
| Manufacturing Details | List of Machinery, Process Flow Chart, Factory Layout Plan |
| Raw Material Details | List of Raw Materials, Supplier Details, Raw Material Invoices, Raw Material Test Certificates |
| Testing & Quality Control | List of Testing Equipment, Calibration Certificates, QC/Lab In-charge Appointment Letter & Qualification |
| Production Details | Annual Installed Capacity, Last Year Production Value |
| Product & Packaging Details | Quantity per Package, Nature of Packing, Product Printing / Marking Details |
| Management Details | Top Management Details, BIS Communication Contact Person |
| Brand & Certification Documents | Trademark / Brand Certificate, Consent Letter from BIS Recognized Laboratory |
| Additional Documents | Weekly Off Details, Hygiene Document (if applicable), Relaxation Letter (if applicable), Any Other Relevant Document |
| Foreign Manufacturer Requirement | Appointment of Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) for BIS coordination and compliance in India |
Foreign manufacturers are required to appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) in India. This person is the local point of contact for Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and takes care of all rules and compliance work in India.
Marking Requirements & License Validity
Marking Requirements
Once a manufacturer obtains BIS approval, the ISI Mark for an electrical energy meter must be clearly and permanently marked on its packaging or on the product. In addition to the ISI Mark, essential details such as the manufacturer’s identification and licence number (CM/L) must be written. This ensures the product meets all safety and quality standards. Additional details are mentioned below:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|
| ISI Mark | Indicates that the product is BIS certified and conforms to standards |
| Standard Number | IS 14697: 2021 |
| CML Number | Certification Marks License (CML) number issued by BIS |
| Manufacturer Details | Name of manufacturer or registered trademark |
| Batch / Date | Batch number, heat number, or manufacturing date for traceability |
Note: Marking is typically applied using durable stamping, tagging, or permanent printing to ensure clear identification during handling, storage, and transportation, as per BIS marking requirements.
Validity for Transformer Operated Meter BIS License
| particulars | Details |
|---|
| Validity | Typically 1 to 2 years, depending on BIS approval conditions |
| Renewal | Must be renewed before expiry by submitting the application along with the prescribed fee and updated documents |
| Surveillance | Includes periodic factory inspections and market sample testing conducted by BIS |
| Compliance | Continuous following to standard and applicable Quality Control Orders (QCOs) is mandatory |
| Risk | Non-compliance or failed sample testing may lead to suspension or cancellation of the BIS license |
Transformer Operated Var-Hour Meters BIS Approval Fees
The cost of a BIS license for a transformer-operated meter includes charges for application, inspection, license, testing, and marking. These fees are paid to BIS as per Scheme I guidelines.
| Charge Type | Indian Manufacturers | Foreign Manufacturers |
|---|
| Application Fee | INR 1,000 | USD 15 |
| Audit Charges | INR 7,000 | USD 3,200 – 5,900 |
| License Fee | INR 1,000 | USD 15 |
| Marking Fee | As applicable | As applicable |
| Testing Charges | As applicable | As applicable |
| EVTL India Consultancy Fee | As per actual | As per actual |
Note:
- Application fee for foreign manufacturers is payable via SWIFT (SAARC countries may pay in INR with applicable GST).
- Audit charges for foreign manufacturers vary based on country/location.
- Marking fee depends on the product category and production volume (MSME benefits may apply).
- Testing charges need to be paid directly to BIS-recognised laboratories.
- Consultancy fees depend on product type and factory location.
Conclusion
The Bureau of Indian Standards has outlined the requirements for AC Static Transformer Operated Watthour and Var-hour Meters under IS 14697: 2021. The requirements mentioned in the standard must be followed by manufacturers of Class 0.1S, 0.2S and 0.5S energy meters. The standards specify the requirements related to measurement accuracy, electrical safety, and insulation strength to ensure reliable operation. The certification from BIS guarantees that all manufacturers of transformer meters adhere to the statutory regulatory requirements in India. Only BIS-approved manufacturers are legally permitted to sell static transformer-operated meters in the Indian market. The meter manufacturers can take help from EVTL India to have a relaxed certification journey.
