AC Static Watthour Meters are devices used for accurate measurement of electrical energy consumption. These meters are designed to deliver precise readings under varying load and environmental conditions. This makes the electric meters an important part of the modern power distribution systems. For such reasons, the smart meters are accepted for use in residential, commercial, and industrial complexes.
To ensure the safety of the Class 1 and 2 meters, the Bureau of Indian Standards has drafted the requirements under IS 13779: 2020. This Indian standard ensures that the meters can deliver precise energy measurement under various operating conditions. Manufacturers of the electric meters must obtain certification to meet the performance standard. This aids them in selling the watt-hour meters to the Indian customers.
What is IS 13779: 2020?
This is the Indian Standard for an A.C. Watthour meter used for accurate measurement of electrical energy. In order to ensure that the meters are safe for use, a few requirements must be met. As per the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards), meters are:
- Verified for measurement accuracy under different load conditions
- Checked for power consumption
- Evaluated for electromagnetic compatibility
- Tested for insulation resistance
Eligibility for Static Energy Meters BIS License
BIS authorisation under IS 13779: 2020 is required for businesses involved in manufacturing, importing, or supplying electricity meters in India.
Applicable to:
- Manufacturers (India) - Must get BIS approval if the Class 1 & 2 energy meters are covered under QCO.
- Foreign Manufacturers - Need certification to export the product to India.
- Importers/Brand Owners - Must ensure that the smart meters are BIS-certified before selling.
- Sellers/Distributors - Should only sell certified Watt-hour Meters.
Testing and Inspection Requirements
To ensure reliable performance of electrical energy meters, the Bureau of Indian Standards outlines the minimum requirements under IS 13779: 2020. This certification ensures that manufacturers maintain uniformity in product quality. It also ensures that the meters provide accurate energy measurement for domestic and commercial use. The BIS testing parameters and quality checks for the Class 1 & 2 energy meters are listed below:
How to get AC Watthour Meters BIS Approval
The BIS Authorisation process ensures that the class 1 and 2 energy meters meet 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.
Documents List for IS 13779: 2020 Certification
| Document Category | Documents Required |
|---|
| 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 must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) in India. This person will work with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and take 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 Class 1 and 2 energy meters must be clearly and permanently marked on its packaging or on the product. In addition to the ISI Mark, essential details must be mentioned, such as the manufacturer’s identification, licence number (CM/L), etc. This ensures the product meets all safety and quality standards. More details are mentioned below:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|
| ISI Mark | Indicates that the product is BIS certified and conforms to standards |
| Standard Number | IS 13779: 2020 |
| 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.
BIS License Validity for Static Energy Meters
| particulars | Details |
|---|
| Initial 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 |
| Surveillane | 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 |
Fee Structure for Electricity Meters BIS Authorization
The cost of BIS Approval for a smart 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 are directly payable 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 Watthour Meters for Class 1 and 2 under IS 13779: 2020. This standard ensures that the manufacturers must meet the required safety and performance criteria for energy meters. It also mentions the parameters for electrical integrity and durability, and ensures reliable performance under varying load conditions.
BIS certification not only helps manufacturers meet the regulatory requirements but also builds customer confidence among Indian customers. Manufacturers can legally sell the smart meters in India if they have obtained the BIS approval. EVTL India can assist such manufacturers in getting the certification for watt-hour meters. It makes the certification journey hassle-free by offering help in filling the application, documentation and testing coordination.
