Photovoltaic (PV) cables are special cables used in solar power systems to connect solar panels, inverters, and other electrical components. These cables are designed to handle sunlight, heat, moisture, and harsh weather conditions while safely carrying electricity. Good quality PV cables are important for the safety, efficiency, and long life of solar systems.
To maintain quality and safety standards, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) introduced IS 17293:2020 for photovoltaic cables. This standard defines the requirements and testing process for PV cables used in solar applications. BIS certification ensures that the cables are reliable, safe, and suitable for use in solar energy systems in India.
Why BIS Certification is Mandatory for Photovoltaic Cables
- Mandatory by Law – BIS certification is required for photovoltaic (PV) cables under the standard before they can be sold in India.
- Avoids Legal Penalties – Selling non-certified PV cables may lead to fines, product seizure, and legal action under BIS regulations.
- Builds Customer Trust – The BIS certification mark assures customers that the cables are reliable and suitable for solar applications.
- Supports Smooth Market Entry – BIS-certified PV cables can be easily supplied and used in solar projects across India without compliance issues.
What is IS 17293:2020?
This is an Indian standard issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) for
photovoltaic (PV) cables used in solar power systems. It defines the safety, quality,
and performance requirements that these cables must meet before being sold in
India.
This standard helps ensure that PV cables:
- Safely carry electricity in solar systems
- Resist heat, sunlight, and harsh weather conditions
- Reduce the risk of electrical faults and fire hazards
- Provide long-lasting and reliable performance
- Meet required quality and safety tests
BIS Testing Requirements for Solar Cables
To ensure safety, durability, and proper performance, photovoltaic (PV) cables are
tested as per standard requirements before BIS certification is granted. These tests
check the cable’s electrical safety, insulation quality, resistance to heat, and
performance in solar conditions.
How to Get BIS Approval for Solar Cables
To obtain BIS certification for these cables under IS 17293:2020, manufacturers
must follow the BIS certification process. The main steps include:
- 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 required safety and performance parameters, including electric strength, insulation resistance, and mechanical integrity.
- 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: Officials from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) conduct an inspection of the manufacturing units to verify the production process, safety measures, and quality control system.
- Grant of BIS License: After successful verification of all requirements, BIS grants the certification license under Scheme-I.
- Use of ISI Mark: Once the license is granted, the manufacturer can use the ISI mark on the product with a CM/L number, confirming that the product meets BIS standards.
bis Documents Checklist for photovoltaic cables
| 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 |
Marking Requirements for solar Cables
Once a manufacturer receives BIS certification, the ISI Mark must be clearly and permanently marked on the cable or its packaging. The marking helps identify that the product complies with BIS safety and quality standards.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|
| ISI Mark | Indicates that the product is BIS certified and conforms to standards |
| Standard Number | IS 317293:2020 |
| 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 generally done through durable printing, embossing, or tagging to ensure clear identification during storage and use.
Validity of BIS License for PV Cables
| particulars | Details |
|---|
| Initial Validity | Usually 1 to 2 years, based on BIS approval conditions |
| Renewal | License must be renewed before expiry with required documents and fees |
| Surveillane | BIS may inspect factories and test samples periodically |
| Annual Fees | Annual license fee must be paid regularly |
| Compliance | Continuous compliance with BIS requirements is necessary |
| License Format | BIS is shifting towards a 10-digit license number format |
| Non-Compliance Risk | May lead to suspension or cancellation of license |
BIS Certification Fees for imported solar cables
| 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:
- Testing charges are paid directly to BIS-approved laboratories.
- Audit charges for foreign manufacturers may vary depending on the country and factory location.
- Marking fee depends on production volume and product category.
- Consultancy charges may vary based on product type and certification requirements.
Conclusion
Photovoltaic cables play an important role in the safety and efficiency of solar power systems. Compliance with IS 17293:2020 helps ensure that these cables offer reliable performance, durability, and protection against heat, weather, and electrical faults. It also helps manufacturers improve product quality and build customer confidence in the Indian market. Meeting the required standards is essential for smooth market access and long-term product reliability in solar applications. EVTL India assists manufacturers throughout the certification process by providing support with documentation, testing, application filing, and compliance requirements.
