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Dated: 14.04.2025

MNRE Notifies New QCO for Solar Systems, Devices, and Components

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has issued the Solar Systems, Devices and Components Goods Order, 2025, via S.O. 492(E) dated 27th January 2025. This order supersedes the earlier Solar Photovoltaics QCO, 2017, and introduces mandatory BIS certification and standardization for a broad range of solar PV components and equipment.

Legal Authority

The Order has been issued under:

• Sections 16(1), 16(2), 17, and 25(3) of the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016.
• After consultation with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).

Date of Enforcement

The Order will come into effect from 27^th July 2025.

Scope of Coverage

The Order mandates BIS certification and use of the Standard Mark for the following solar products:

1. Crystalline Silicon Terrestrial PV Modules

• IS 14286 (Part 1), IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 1)
• IS/IEC 61730-1, IS/IEC 61730-2

2. Thin-Film Terrestrial PV Modules

• CdTe, a-Si, Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)2 technologies
• IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 2 to Sec 4)
• IS/IEC 61730-1, IS/IEC 61730-2

3. Storage Batteries for SPV Applications

• IS 16270:2023

4. Power Inverters for SPV Systems

• IS 16221 (Part 2), IS/IEC 61683

5. Utility-Interconnected PV Inverters

• IS 16221 (Part 2), IS 16169, IS 17980

Compliance and Enforcement

• BIS will act as the certifying and enforcing authority.
• Market surveillance will be carried out by BIS or agencies notified in consultation with MNRE.
• Goods meant for export are exempt from the requirements.

Efficiency Criteria for PV Modules

A new benchmark for minimum efficiency (@ STC) has been notified:

• 18% for Mono Crystalline & Thin-Film PV Modules
• 17% for Poly Crystalline PV Modules

Efficiency will be calculated using the formula: Efficiency (@ STC %) = [Pmax (W) / {1000 × A (m²)}] × 100

Where:

• Pmax = Maximum PV output
• A = Area of front surface (m²) as per IS 14286

Penalty for Non-Compliance

Violation of this Order will attract penalties under the BIS Act, 2016.

Impact on Industry

• Ensures enhanced product reliability and consumer safety.
• Standardizes solar equipment in line with international norms.
• Facilitates better integration of solar technology with national grid and distributed energy systems.
• Encourages manufacturers to upgrade technology and product testing practices.

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Source: MNRE

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