The AC Watthour Meters are made such that they measure power consumed by an electrical device accurately regardless of their loads. These meters are usually installed in domestic connections, industrial panels, distribution systems, and energy monitoring systems. Class 0.5, 1, and 2 meters are installed according to the level of accuracy needed for the application in which they are to be used.
The accuracy of these meters is vital, especially where energy information needs to be taken for billing, auditing, or load management. According to IS 13010:2002, these meters are tested to meet technical and functional criteria set by the authorities for the purpose of getting approval in the country. This test involves the accuracy of metering, electrical endurance, electrical insulation resistance, etc. Meeting BIS standards will ensure reduced errors, malfunctions, and calibration problems.
What is IS 13010: 2002
This is the Indian Standard that specifies requirements for AC static watt-hour meters used for electrical energy measurement. To ensure that meters meet strict performance criteria before being approved for use. As per the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards), meters are evaluated for:
- Accuracy under different load conditions
- Power consumption of voltage and current circuits
- Electromagnetic compatibility performance
- Insulation resistance
Eligibility for AC Load Meter BIS License
BIS authorisation under IS 13010: 2002 is required for businesses involved in manufacturing, importing, or supplying electricity billing meters in India.
Applicable to:
- Manufacturers (India) - Must get BIS approval if Class 0.5, 1, and 2 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 BIS-certified Watt-hour Meters.
Testing and Inspection Requirements
To ensure safe performance of AC static watthour meters (Class 0.5, 1, and 2), the Bureau of Indian Standards outlines the minimum requirements under IS 13010: 2002. This certification ensures that manufacturers maintain consistent build quality. It also ensures that the meters provide precise and stable energy measurement under different load conditions and voltage variations. The BIS testing parameters and quality checks for the Class 0.5, 1 & 2 energy meters are listed below:
| Test Group | What is Tested | Purpose |
|---|
| Electrical Accuracy Tests | Limits of error, meter constant, repeatability, starting current, no-load condition | Ensures accurate measurement of electrical energy under defined load conditions |
| Voltage & Current Influence Tests | Effect of voltage variation, self-heating, temperature rise, short-time overcurrent | Ensures stable meter performance during electrical fluctuations and overload conditions |
| Insulation & High Voltage Tests | nsulation resistance, AC high voltage withstand, impulse voltage test | Ensures electrical safety and protection against breakdown or leakage |
| Environmental & Climatic Tests | Temperature variation, humidity, dust, and moisture exposure | Ensures durability and reliable operation under harsh environmental conditions |
| Mechanical Strength Tests | Shock test, vibration test, meter case strength evaluation | Ensures mechanical robustness during handling, transport, and installation |
| Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Tests | Immunity to electromagnetic interference and external disturbances | Ensures accurate operation without disruption from electromagnetic fields |
| Thermal & Overcurrent Tests | Short-time overcurrent, heating cycle performance, thermal stability | Ensures safe functioning under high load and elevated temperature conditions |
| Power & Consumption Tests | Power consumption of voltage and current circuits | Ensures low internal energy usage and efficient operation of the meter |
| Meter Functionality Tests | Starting condition, running with no-load, direction of rotation, marking verification | Ensures correct operational behavior and accurate energy registration |
| Register & Display Tests | Counting mechanism, display accuracy, output indication | Ensures correct reading display and proper recording of measured energy |
| Adjustment & Accuracy Stability Tests | Range of adjustment, sustained accuracy, repeatability tests | Ensures long-term measurement consistency and calibration stability |
| Mechanical & Material Tests | Material strength of dial, case durability, torque/speed ratio | Ensures durability of internal and external meter components |
| Safety & Fire Resistance Tests | Resistance to heat and fire, material flammability checks | Ensures safety against fire hazards and thermal risks |
| Surge & High Stress Tests | Impulse voltage withstand, short-duration electrical stress | Ensures protection against sudden voltage spikes and surges |
How to get Electricity Watthour Meters BIS Approval?
The BIS Authorisation process ensures that the Class 0.5, 1 & 2 energy meters meet the required standards for 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 electrical performance, electromagnetic compatibility, and insulation strength under different load and operating conditions.
- 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 Required for IS 13010: 2002 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 an electrical energy measurement device 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 13010: 2002 |
| 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 AC Load Meter
| 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 Smart Energy Meter BIS Authorization
The cost of BIS Approval for an energy 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
Effective monitoring of energy is essential for proper distribution of electricity and avoiding conflicts arising from inaccurate energy consumption readings. The BIS Certification for AC Watthour Meters as per IS 13010:2002 is important since the meter would be able to perform efficiently despite being used for a long time. The certified meter will be able to cope well with voltage variations.
Watt-hour meter manufacturers can legally sell meters in India if they have obtained a BIS license. EVTL India can assist such manufacturers in obtaining the certification for watt-hour meters. It makes the certification journey hassle-free by offering help in filling the application, documentation and testing coordination.
