- The revised Solar Systems, Devices and Components Goods Order, 2025 (notified 27 January 2025) requires BIS certification for modules, solar inverters and storage batteries
- Large inverters (above 200 kW) were given extra time to certify, reportedly to the end of 2026
- Modules must also meet ALMM where it applies (see our ALMM guide)
- Plants above the voltage and capacity thresholds need the Electrical Inspector's (CEIG) approval before energisation under the CEA safety regulations
- Earthing, lightning protection, surge protection and documented commissioning tests are what keep a plant safe for 25 years
Three layers of compliance
- Product certification: each component meets its Indian Standard and carries the BIS mark (and, for modules, ALMM where applicable).
- Design and installation: the plant is designed and built to the electrical safety regulations and good practice.
- Inspection and approval: the DISCOM and, where required, the Electrical Inspector approve the plant before it is energised.
The BIS Quality Control Order
MNRE notified the revised Solar Systems, Devices and Components Goods (Requirement for Compulsory Registration) Order, 2025 in the Gazette on 27 January 2025, effective after a 180-day transition. It covers solar PV modules, inverters for solar PV applications and storage batteries. These must conform to the notified Indian Standards and carry the BIS Standard Mark under a BIS licence; products made only for export are exempt.
Inverters above 200 kW were allowed extra time. MNRE extended the self-certification window for them, reportedly to 31 December 2026, during which makers need valid IEC certificates matching the Indian Standards.
The standards each component should meet
| Component | Standards to ask for | What they cover |
|---|---|---|
| Crystalline PV modules | IS 14286 / IEC 61215; IS/IEC 61730 | Design qualification and type approval; safety |
| Grid-tied inverters | IS 16221 (Parts 1 and 2) / IEC 62109; IS 16169 | Safety of power converters; islanding-prevention test |
| DC cables | IS 17293 / EN 50618 type solar cables | UV-resistant, double-insulated cables for PV |
| AC power cables | IS 7098 (XLPE) | Armoured LT cables to the distribution board |
| Earthing | IS 3043 | Code of practice for earthing |
| Lightning protection | IS/IEC 62305 | Lightning protection of structures |
| Commissioning and documentation | IEC 62446-1 | System documentation, commissioning tests and inspection |
| Storage batteries | Notified IS for the battery type | Covered by the 2025 Quality Control Order |
CEA safety regulations and CEIG approval
The Central Electricity Authority's safety and electric supply regulations set the rules for electrical installations, including clearances, earthing, protection and inspection. Installations above the specified voltage, and in many states above a set capacity, must be inspected and approved by the Electrical Inspector (the Chief Electrical Inspector to Government, CEIG, in many states) before they are energised.
- Drawing approvalSubmit single-line diagram, layout and equipment details for approval where the state requires it.
- Build to the approved designInstall with the specified protection, earthing and clearances.
- TestInsulation resistance, earth resistance, protection settings and relay tests, recorded on the prescribed formats.
- InspectionThe Electrical Inspector inspects the installation and the test records.
- Approval to energiseWith approval, the DISCOM completes metering and synchronisation.
Safety on site
- Permit-to-work and electrical isolation (lock-out, tag-out) before any work on live DC or AC circuits
- Work-at-height controls on roofs: lifelines, harnesses, edge protection and skylight safety mesh
- PPE suited to the task: helmets, insulated gloves, safety shoes, eye protection
- Daily toolbox talks and supervision by trained engineers
- A safety management system certified to ISO 45001
Need a plant that passes inspection first time? Our veteran-led crews build to the standards and document every test.
Get a free solar quoteFrequently asked questions
Do solar inverters need BIS certification?
Which standards should solar modules meet?
What is CEIG approval for solar?
What tests should be done at commissioning?
Sources
- PIB: MNRE notifies the revised Quality Control Order for solar photovoltaic products
- Saur Energy: MNRE extends self-certification for solar inverters above 200 kW
- PIB: MNRE amends the ALMM Order 2019 (List-II for solar cells)
This guide explains public policy in plain language for planning purposes. Rules, rates and deadlines change: confirm the current position with the notifying authority, your DISCOM and your tax adviser before you commit. Last checked 11 Oct 2026.
About the authors. Arrays Ingenieria is an ex-servicemen-led solar EPC and installation & commissioning company working Pan-India, from Assam's tea estates to industrial rooftops. Our story · Our projects
