BIS Certification for Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic Modules: Complete Guide

The development of solar power generation systems in India takes place at an incredibly fast pace. Due to increased efforts to introduce renewable energy sources in India, the need for high-quality solar PV modules in India is growing rapidly. Nevertheless, even the production of solar products does not ensure entry into the Indian market. Adherence to the mandatory regulatory requirements is necessary.

For example, one of such mandatory regulatory requirements is BIS certification for thin-film terrestrial photovoltaic modules IS 16077 (Part 2) under the BIS Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS). Regardless of your status, whether you are an Indian or foreign manufacturer of photovoltaic products, certification by BIS becomes a must if you wish to supply your products to India.

This piece from UMSPCS will provide useful data on the BIS certification in India for manufacturers of photovoltaic products with regard to requirements, testing, cost, issues, etc.

What is the BIS Certification of Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic Modules?

The BIS of the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution is an Indian governmental institution concerned with the safety and quality of all products manufactured in India.

Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic Modules fall under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS). For these modules to be imported, manufactured, distributed, or sold in India, they must satisfy the Indian standard in force.

Certified photovoltaic modules confirm the compliance of photovoltaic modules with some safety and quality specifications.

As required by the BIS, the manufacturer needs to have the certification prior to the sale of their products in India.

Applicable Indian Standard for Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic Modules 

The certification is issued depending on compliance with Indian Standard IS 16077 (Part 2): 2013 / IEC 61646:2008.

The above-mentioned standard outlines the conditions for qualification and testing procedures of thin-film solar cells for long-term outdoor operation.

Testing will include the following:

• Performance parameters
• Resistance to the environment
• Mechanical characteristics
• Security elements
• Reliability

Products Covered Under BIS Certification for Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic Modules

The photovoltaic modules that can undergo certification include:

• Thick Film Photovoltaic Modules
• Amorphous Silicon Photovoltaic Modules
• Cadmium Telluride Photovoltaic Modules (CdTe)
• Copper Indium Gallium Selenium Photovoltaic Modules (CIGS)
• Flexible Thin Film Photovoltaic Modules
• Photovoltaic Building Integration Using Thin Film Systems
• Utility Scale Thin Film Photovoltaic Panels

Manufacturers are advised to establish the appropriate category before

Key Aspects of BIS CRS Certification for Electronic Products

CRS (Compulsory Registration Scheme) is considered one of the most popular conformity assessment systems of BIS. The main features of CRS are the following:

• Registration by Manufacturers: This system provides BIS registration only to manufacturers and not to any importer or trader.
• Product Testing: Products need to be tested in a recognised laboratory of BIS.
• Compliance with Requirements: Products must fulfil all requirements in terms of the concerned Indian Standard.
• Continuous Compliance: Once a manufacturer gets certified, he/she needs to comply with BIS requirements continuously.
• Market Surveillance: BIS may conduct surveillance activities to verify continued compliance.

Eligibility Requirements for BIS Certification IS 16077 (Part 2)

The following may be eligible:

• Indian Manufacturers: Any manufacturers manufacturing in India.
• Foreign Manufacturers: Any overseas manufacturers who export their products to India.
• Contract Manufacturers: Manufacturers manufacturing through third parties will also be eligible based on the guidelines by BIS.
• Authorised Indian Representative (AIR): Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorised Indian Representative (AIR) if there is no liaison or branch office set up in India.

This particular criterion makes the BIS certification more crucial for foreign manufacturers planning to export to India.

Step-by-Step BIS Certification Procedure for Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic Modules

Step 1: Product Profiling & IS Standard Identification

The procedure starts with the evaluation of the technical parameters of the photovoltaic modules. The team at UMSPCS is capable of finding out the Indian Standard that applies to the said product under the Compulsory Registration Scheme of the BIS.

Identifying the right IS standard will avoid the following problems:

• Improper product classification
• Testing delays
• Potential non-compliance
• Rejection of the BIS registration application

Step 2: Sample Testing & Lab Coordination

Testing of the product shall be done in an accredited laboratory for conformance with the said Indian Standard.

UMSPCS will manage the whole sample testing process by selecting and coordinating with BIS-accredited laboratories.

This step includes the following activities:

• Selection of accredited laboratories
• Scheduling of tests
• Verification of compliance
• Monitoring of tests
• Evaluation of test reports

Our team ensures that all testing requirements are fulfilled efficiently and in accordance with BIS regulations.

Step 3: Documentation & Application Package Preparation

BIS certification demands thorough documentation regarding technical aspects and compliance. Our team prepares and organises all necessary documentation before sending it for approval.

Common documentation includes:

• Technical documentation
• Specifications of the product
• Circuit drawings
• Manuals
• Details about the manufacturing process
• Quality control documentation
• Declarations or affidavits
• Documentation related to factories
• Documents concerning the Authorised Indian Representative (AIR) for overseas companies

We ensure all necessary documents are prepared in line with the latest guidelines of BIS CRS to avoid any possible objections or delays.

Stage 4: Submitting an Application & BIS Evaluation Process

Once tests have been carried out and documentation has been prepared, we submit your application via the BIS CRS online system.

UMSPCS will assist during the evaluation phase by:

• Submitting the application
• Contacting BIS authorities
• Monitoring the progress of the application
• Handling queries from the BIS authorities
• Communication of technical and compliance issues

We strive to facilitate and expedite the whole process of certification approval.

Step 5: Grant of R-Number & BIS Registration

Registration is issued by BIS after successful evaluation of the application and other required documentation.

BIS grants the following to the manufacturer:

• BIS CRS Registration Certificate
• Unique BIS R-Number

This registration is usually valid for two years and gives the manufacturer permission to manufacture/import/distribute/sell the certified product in India.

Step 6: Markings & Labelling Compliance

Manufacturers must comply with BIS marking and labelling guidelines after certification approval.

These guidelines are outlined by UMSPCS regarding:

• Proper use of the BIS Standard Mark
• Display of R-Number
• Product labeling requirement
• Packaging
• Placement of BIS Standard Mark

Labelling is important from a regulatory point of view and also to avoid any market-related problems.

Step 7: Renewal, Model Inclusion & Ongoing Compliance Support

We also continue our support even after certification is issued. UMSPCS can provide assistance to manufacturers in:

• BIS CRS renewal
• Addition of more product models
• Compliance upgrades
• BIS surveillance services
• Regulatory updates & standards modification

This enables manufacturers to remain in compliance and have continuous access to the Indian market.

Documents Required for BIS Certification IS 16077(Part 2)

Documentation can differ based on various factors, including the place where the manufacturer is registered and the type of products being considered. Documents commonly required include:

• Registration Certificate of Business – Evidence of incorporation or establishment of the business.
• Details & Specifications of Product – Technical details of the product.
• Test Reports – Issued by labs recognised by BIS.
• Trademark Certificate – Evidence of trademark ownership (if any).
• Letter of Authorisation – For an authorised signatory/representative.
• AIR Documents – Required for foreign companies having Authorised Indian Representatives.

Proper documentation will minimise delay in approvals.

Cost of BIS Certification for Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic Modules

Cost is dependent upon:

• Nature of product
• Number of models
• Need for testing
• Lab fees
• Requirement for documentation support services

A customised quotation should be obtained from manufacturers for accurate cost estimation.

Certification time will depend upon the number of days required for testing, documentation, and processing by BIS. It is about 20-30 business days.

Common Challenges Faced by Manufacturers

Several manufacturers may face problems during the process of obtaining certification.

• Inappropriate Choice of Standard: This causes applications to be rejected.
• Testing Bottlenecks: Laboratory testing may cause delays for the project.
• Poor Documentation: Lack of proper documentation invites questions from BIS.
• Overseas Manufacturers’ Problems: Foreign manufacturers have difficulties in comprehending Indian regulations.
• Product Marking Problems: Improper labelling of products may pose a problem.
• Technical Fails: Products may need to undergo redesign due to technical failures.

Getting professional advice may help prevent such situations.

Benefits of BIS Certification for Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic Modules

Certification brings many benefits.

• Legal Market Entry: Allows for legal selling and marketing in India.
• Increased Brand Credibility: Reflects a commitment to quality and safety.
• Customer Trust: Helps build confidence among customers and project promoters.
• Competitive Edge: Preferred in government and private projects due to certification.
• Increased Product Quality: Product testing results in better product performance.
• Easy Market Expansion: Makes it easier to enter India’s booming solar market.

Why Choose UMSPCS for BIS Certification?

The BIS certification process could be difficult for new applicants and foreign companies. This is where UMSPCS steps in to offer regulatory compliance services that will enable businesses to obtain certification seamlessly and without wasting time.

These include:

• Applicability study for the product
• Indian standard identification
• Document preparation
• Filing of BIS application
• Laboratory liaison
• Handling of test reports
• BIS inquiry
• Authorised Indian representative support
• Project management services from start to finish

Through our years of experience providing services of BIS CRS Certification for electronic products, renewable energy products, and others, we have assisted businesses in obtaining regulatory compliance and accessing the Indian market faster.

Conclusion

BIS Certification for Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic Modules is of paramount importance in terms of quality, safety, and reliability of products in the fast-growing field of renewable energy in India. Whatever your business may be, whether you are from India or a foreign manufacturer exporting to India, complying with BIS norms is a must.

The BIS certification process involves a lot of effort, starting from conducting tests and preparing documents to applying for and getting your application approved. Getting professional assistance can help you save time and effort on the entire process.

Looking for BIS Certification for Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic Modules?

UMSPCS offers you complete assistance to get BIS certification in India and also offers its assistance in getting BIS certification for foreign manufacturers and CRS registration services, among others.

Contact UMSPCS now!

Read more also: BIS CRS Registration for Induction Stove (IS 302 Part 2/Sec 6)

FAQs

1. Is there any requirement for BIS Certification for Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic Modules in India?

Yes, it is compulsory to have BIS Certification in CRS for these covered products before sale, import, and distribution in India.

2. What is the standard followed by Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic Modules?

These products are generally certified as per the IS 16077 (Part 2): 2013 / IEC 61646:2008 standards.

3. Can foreign manufacturing companies apply for BIS Certification?

Yes, Foreign manufacturers can apply for certification from the BIS CRS scheme and appoint the Authorised Indian Representative (AIR).

4. What is the time period for getting BIS certification?

The process usually takes around 20-30 working days to get BIS Certification for Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic Modules.

5. What documents are needed to be submitted for BIS certification?

Manufacturers will need company documents, product details, test reports, quality records, labelling details, and AIR documents for foreign companies.