MNRE Mandates Standards and Efficiency for Solar Systems in India

The Indian government has issued the “Solar Systems, Devices and Components Goods Order, 2025,” mandating compliance with specific Indian Standards and minimum efficiency criteria for various solar products. This order aims to ensure the quality and performance of solar equipment deployed across the country. This notification was issued on January 27, 2025.

The order comes into force from July 26, 2025.

The order covers a range of solar products, including:

  1. Crystalline Silicon Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) modules (Si wafer based)
  2. Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) modules [CdTe, a-Si, Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)2]
  3. Storage Batteries for Solar Photovoltaic Applications
  4. Power Inverters for Photovoltaic Power Systems
  5. Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic Inverters

Specified goods must conform to the corresponding Indian Standards listed in the order and bear the ‘Standard Mark’ under a license from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).

Solar PV modules must meet minimum efficiency requirements:

  • 18% for Mono Crystalline Silicon and Thin-Film technologies.
  • 17% for Poly Crystalline Silicon technology.

Goods meant for export are exempt from the order’s provisions.

The BIS is the certifying and enforcing authority. Market surveillance will be conducted by the BIS or its notified agencies in consultation with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).

The new order supersedes the “Solar Photovoltaics, Systems, Devices and Components Goods (Requirements for Compulsory Registration) Order, 2017.” Existing licenses under the previous order remain valid until their expiry, after which renewals will fall under the new order’s provisions.

Contravention of the order’s provisions is punishable under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016.

The MNRE may issue directions for information gathering related to the order’s implementation.

Significance:

This order is a crucial step towards ensuring the quality and reliability of solar energy systems in India. By mandating adherence to Indian Standards and minimum efficiency criteria, the government aims to:

  • Promote the use of high-quality solar products.
  • Enhance the performance and lifespan of solar installations.
  • Protect consumers from substandard equipment.
  • Boost investor confidence in the Indian solar market.

The order’s focus on efficiency is particularly important as it encourages the adoption of more productive solar technologies, contributing to India’s renewable energy goals. The involvement of the BIS in certification and enforcement ensures a robust mechanism for compliance.


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