Crystalline Silicon Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) modules – Design Qualification And Type Approval
Strategic Recommendations for Crystalline Silicon PV Modules – IS 14286
- Apply for BIS CRS Registration
All PV modules must be BIS-certified under IS 14286 before import, manufacture, or sale in India. - Collaborate with Compliance Experts
Engage ERA Global experts for BIS application filing, design qualification testing, type approval documentation, and assistance in managing export/R&D exemptions. - Contact ERA Support Team
📧 cs@eraglobal.co.in | 📞 +91 9599296331 | 💬 WhatsApp – For CRS application, test lab coordination, and regulatory guidance. - Track Notifications & Amendments
Stay updated via ERA Regulatory Newsletter on CRS amendments, BIS standard revisions, and MNRE circulars affecting crystalline silicon PV modules. - Conduct Gap Assessment
Audit PV modules for IS 14286 compliance—covering design qualification, type approval, electrical safety, mechanical endurance, and BIS marking readiness.
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Crystalline Silicon Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) Modules (Si wafer based) |
| IS Standard | IS 14286 |
| Title of IS | Crystalline Silicon Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) Modules – Design Qualification and Type Approval |
| Regulation / QCO | Solar Photovoltaics, Systems, Devices and Components Goods (Requirements for Compulsory Registration) Order, 2017 (S.O. 2920(E)) under the BIS Act, 1986 |
| Notified Vide | S.O. 2920(E), dated 5th September 2017 |
| Final Enforcement Date | 5th September 2018 (one year after notification) |
| Objective & Scope | To ensure safety, performance, and reliability of crystalline silicon PV modules in India through design qualification and type approval. This regulation prevents the distribution of substandard or unsafe solar modules in the domestic market. |
| Products Covered | All crystalline silicon terrestrial PV modules (Si wafer based), including modules of varying wattages and sizes intended for grid-connected or off-grid applications. |
| Exemptions | - Modules exclusively manufactured for export - Units imported for R&D, testing, or demonstration purposes (to be scrapped or exported later) |
| Industries Impacted | - PV module manufacturers and importers - Solar EPC companies and project developers - Grid-connected/off-grid solar system integrators - Renewable energy distributors and retailers |
| Mandatory Compliance | - Must conform to IS 14286 - BIS CRS registration mandatory prior to manufacture, sale, or import - Each unit must bear BIS Standard Mark indicating conformity and registration number |
| Testing Parameters | - Design qualification tests (mechanical load, thermal cycling, humidity-freeze, damp heat) - Performance validation (power output, efficiency, temperature coefficient) - Electrical safety tests - Type approval verification for series of products |
| Certification & Enforcement Authority | Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) – certification authority. Enforcement assisted by MNRE and local authorities. |
| Penalties for Non-Compliance | Non-compliance may result in cancellation of registration, seizure of non-conforming goods, fines, and other legal actions under the BIS Act, 1986. |
| Conclusion | All crystalline silicon PV modules manufactured, imported, or sold in India must comply with IS 14286 under BIS CRS to ensure safety, reliability, and market conformity. |
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Notification
Crystalline Silicon Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) Modules (Si wafer based) were included under the Solar Photovoltaics, Systems, Devices and Components Goods (Requirements for Compulsory Registration) Order, 2017 via S.O. 2920(E), dated 5th September 2017, with enforcement effective from 5th September 2018.
Overview
Crystalline silicon PV modules are solar power generation devices made from silicon wafers. They convert sunlight into electricity with high efficiency and durability. IS 14286 ensures these modules meet stringent design qualification and type approval standards to verify mechanical integrity, thermal cycling resilience, electrical safety, and long-term performance. This prevents substandard or unsafe PV modules from entering the Indian market.
Objective & Scope
The BIS CRS framework ensures that all crystalline silicon PV modules sold or installed in India are tested for design qualification, type approval, electrical safety, and performance reliability. This protects end users and project developers from low-quality or unsafe PV modules, aligning with MNRE’s vision for a safe and reliable solar energy market.
Products Covered
- Crystalline silicon terrestrial PV modules (Si wafer based)
- Modules of varying wattages, sizes, and series
- Modules intended for grid-connected or off-grid solar applications
Exemptions Provided
- Modules manufactured exclusively for export
- Units imported for R&D, testing, or demonstration purposes (to be scrapped or exported later)
Industries Impacted
- PV module manufacturers and importers
- Solar EPC companies and project developers
- Grid-connected/off-grid solar system integrators
- Renewable energy distributors and retailers
Mandatory Compliance Requirements
All crystalline silicon PV modules marketed in India must:
- Comply with IS 14286
- Be tested and certified under BIS CRS
- Carry the prescribed BIS Standard Mark and registration number
Enforcement Timeline
- CRS 2017: Effective 5th September 2018
Legal Provisions, Enforcement & Penalties
Enforced under the BIS Act, 1986, with field-level monitoring by BIS and MNRE. Violations attract penalties including registration cancellation, seizure of non-conforming goods, fines, and legal action.
Conclusion
Since September 2018, all crystalline silicon PV modules manufactured, imported, or sold in India must comply with IS 14286 under BIS CRS. This ensures design reliability, electrical safety, and performance conformity for all solar modules in the domestic market.
Ready to start your certification journey?
Let us help you navigate regulatory challenges and achieve certification with ease. Leave us your details, and we’ll get back to you—or request a free consultation today.