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Dated: 27.08.2025
MNRE Issues New Series Approval Guidelines for SPV Modules under Solar Systems & Devices QCO-2025 ββ β β
The Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) has issued comprehensive guidelines for the series approval of Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) modules. β These guidelines aim to streamline the testing and registration process for SPV modules in test labs, ensuring compliance with the Solar Systems, Devices, and Components Goods Order, 2025 (Quality Control Order, 2025). β This blog provides an overview of the key aspects of these guidelines, including product family definitions, testing procedures, marking requirements, and retesting protocols.
Key Highlights of the Guidelines
1. Series Approval for SPV Modules β
The guidelines facilitate the formation of product families for SPV modules, enabling manufacturers and test labs to conduct performance testing efficiently. β SPV modules ranging from 0.2W to 20W used in solar luminaries are excluded from the series guidelines for BIS registration until appropriate standards are developed. β Modules up to 5W for solar lantern applications will be tested as per IS 16476 (Part I), while standards for modules in the 5-20W range will be introduced later. β
2. Definition of Product Family β
A product family is defined by the maximum configuration of components and sub-assemblies, along with a description of how models are constructed using these components. β Models within a family share common design, construction, and essential parts to ensure conformity with applicable standards. β
- Testing is required for at least two modules from the lower, median, and higher power classes to cover the entire family. β
- If the median power class does not exist, the next higher class is used. β
- Testing costs are charged only for the tested modules, and the test report covers all wattage sets within the family. β
3. Minimum Efficiency Criteria β
To pass the minimum efficiency criteria, the lowest, highest, and median samples of the family must meet the efficiency standards outlined in the Quality Control Order, 2025. β The methodology for calculating efficiency is defined in the QCO. β
4. Marking Requirements
All SPV modules must include clear and indelible markings laminated inside the glass, containing the following details:
- Manufacturer’s name, registered trade name, or trademark β
- Model number
- Unique serial number β
- Nominal wattage and tolerance (Β±3% acceptable) β
- Year and country of origin β
- Efficiency at Standard Test Conditions (STC) β
- Brand name (if applicable) β
- Actual power output (Pmax) on the back label β
For thin-film modules, markings need not be laminated inside the glass but must comply with IS 14286 (Part 1):2023 and IS/IEC 61730-1 standards. β
5. Retesting Guidelines
In case of changes in the Bill of Materials (BOM) or process modifications, retesting is required as per IS/IEC 62915:2023. β Manufacturers who submitted samples under the revised Quality Control Order before the issuance of these guidelines will be granted licenses upon receiving test reports. β Renewal or inclusion of licenses will follow the latest applicable standards. β
6. Testing Standards and Procedures β
The guidelines emphasize adherence to Indian Standards (IS) mentioned in the Quality Control Order, 2025. β These standards cover testing procedures, sampling, pass criteria, marking, and documentation. β
- Labs may follow separate or combined test sequences for IS 14286 and IS/IEC 61730 standards. β
- Separate test reports must be issued for IS/IEC 61730 and IS 14286/IEC 61215. β
Conclusion
The updated guidelines for SPV module testing and series approval under the Solar Systems, Devices, and Components Goods Order, 2025, are a significant step toward ensuring quality and standardization in the renewable energy sector. β By defining product families, streamlining testing procedures, and enforcing marking and retesting protocols, these guidelines aim to enhance the reliability and efficiency of solar PV modules in India. β
Manufacturers and test labs must stay updated with the latest standards and amendments notified by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to ensure compliance and contribute to India’s renewable energy goals.
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Source: MNRE
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