Solar DC Cable and Fire Survival Cable
Solar PV Cable
Strategic Recommendations for Solar DC Cables (IS 17293:2020)
- Begin BIS Certification Immediately
All manufacturers must comply by 25 February 2024 under IS 17293:2020. File for BIS license early and schedule product testing at BIS-approved labs. - Consult Compliance Professionals (ERA)
Partner with ERA Compliance Team for BIS application filing, documentation, and end-to-end certification support, including testing and ISI mark labeling. - Reach Out for Support
📧 cs@eraglobal.co.in | 📞 +91 9599296331 | 💬 WhatsApp
For guidance on BIS licensing, lab testing coordination, and managing export exemptions. - Track QCO Amendments & Exemptions
Stay updated on QCO notifications through ERA Newsletter to ensure timely compliance and avoid penalties.
Ensure Marking & Declarations
All Solar DC Cable reels, coils, and cartons must bear the ISI mark and license number. Export-only stock should be declared and segregated.
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Solar DC Cable for Photovoltaic (PV) Systems – 1500 V DC |
| Applicable Indian Standard (IS) No. | IS 17293:2020 |
| Title of Indian Standard | Electric Cable for Photovoltaic Systems for rated voltage 1500 V DC |
| Quality Control Order | Solar DC Cable and Fire Survival Cable (Quality Control) Order, 2023 |
| Notification & Amendments | Notified via S.O. 3807(E), dated 24 August 2023, published in Gazette on 25 August 2023. No amendments till date. |
| Final Enforcement Date | 25 February 2024 (six months from Gazette publication) |
| Objective & Scope | To ensure safety, performance, and reliability of Solar DC Cables used in PV systems by mandating BIS certification and ISI marking. |
| Products Covered | Solar DC Cables for PV systems rated up to 1500 V DC, as per IS 17293:2020 |
| Exemptions | Goods manufactured domestically for export are exempt. |
| Industries Impacted | Cable manufacturers; PV module & inverter producers; EPC and solar developers; importers/distributors; test labs |
| Mandatory Compliance | Conformity to IS 17293:2020; ISI marking required; BIS license under Scheme-I of BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018 |
| Next Steps for Stakeholders | Apply for BIS license; test products in BIS-recognized labs; ensure ISI marking on reels/cartons; update procurement specifications |
| Legal Framework Provision & Enforcement | Enforced under BIS Act, 2016 by BIS; inspections and certification audits applicable |
| Penalties for Non-Compliance | Seizure of non-compliant goods; suspension/cancellation of license; fines; imprisonment up to 2 years or both |
| Conclusion | From 25 February 2024, Solar DC Cables must comply with IS 17293:2020 and carry BIS certification; export-only goods are exempt |
| References / Annexures | Gazette Notification: S.O. 3807(E) [24 Aug 2023], Gazette publication 25 Aug 2023 (CG-DL-E-25082023-248343) |
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.
Get in touch with us today
Notification
Solar DC Cables have been brought under compulsory BIS certification through the Solar DC Cable and Fire Survival Cable (Quality Control) Order, 2023, issued via S.O. 3807(E) dated 24 August 2023 and published in the Gazette on 25 August 2023 by the Ministry of Heavy Industries under the BIS Act, 2016. The Order mandates ISI marking for Solar DC Cables as per IS 17293:2020.
Enforcement Timeline
The QCO comes into effect six months from its publication, i.e., from 25 February 2024. From this date, no Solar DC Cable may be manufactured, sold, imported, or distributed in India without BIS certification and ISI marking.
Overview
Solar DC Cables are specialized cables designed for use in photovoltaic (PV) systems, connecting solar panels, inverters, and other balance-of-system (BOS) components. Given their continuous outdoor exposure, high voltage stress, and safety-critical role in renewable energy installations, standardized manufacturing is essential to ensure safety, efficiency, and long service life.
Objective & Scope
The purpose of IS 17293:2020 is to establish performance, durability, and safety requirements for Solar DC Cables rated up to 1500 V DC. The standard ensures resistance to UV, heat, and weathering, as well as adequate insulation, conductivity, and flame resistance, making them suitable for reliable operation in solar installations.
Products Covered
The Order applies to Solar DC Cables rated up to 1500 V DC, as defined in IS 17293:2020, used in photovoltaic power generation systems.
Exemptions Provided
The QCO provides exemption for goods manufactured domestically for export, meaning export-only production need not bear ISI marking. No other exemptions are specified.
Industries Impacted
The regulation directly affects cable manufacturers, solar EPC contractors, PV module and inverter makers, importers/distributors, and testing laboratories. Indirectly, renewable energy developers and government projects dependent on certified cabling will also be impacted.
Mandatory Compliance Requirements
Manufacturers must obtain a BIS license under Scheme-I of the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018. Every certified cable must carry the ISI mark along with the license number on reels, coils, or cartons. Non-marked products cannot be placed on the Indian market after the enforcement date.
Next Steps for Stakeholders
- Apply for BIS certification and schedule testing in BIS-recognized labs.
- Update procurement specifications and design documents to mandate IS 17293:2020 compliance.
- Ensure packaging and labeling carry the ISI mark and license number.
- Segregate export-only production lines and maintain proper documentation.
Legal Provisions, Enforcement & Penalties
The QCO is enforceable under the BIS Act, 2016. BIS is empowered to conduct inspections, audits, and surveillance of manufacturing facilities. Non-compliance may lead to seizure of products, fines, suspension/cancellation of licenses, and imprisonment up to two years or both.
Conclusion
From 25 February 2024, all Solar DC Cables manufactured, sold, or imported in India must comply with IS 17293:2020 and bear the ISI mark. The QCO ensures that solar energy infrastructure in India uses high-quality, safe, and durable cabling, thereby strengthening long-term reliability of PV systems. Export-only goods remain exempt.
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.