Synopsis
In a strategic move to advance India's renewable energy goals, the government has issued a comprehensive quality control order for solar photovoltaic products, ensuring adherence to modern standards and promoting efficiency in the sector.Key Takeaways
- Revised order enhances solar PV quality standards.
- Minimum efficiency criteria established for modules.
- Applicable to various stakeholders in the solar industry.
- BIS to oversee licensing and compliance.
- Aims to foster innovation in renewable energy.
New Delhi, Jan 29 (NationPress) In an effort to enhance India’s ambitious renewable energy (RE) objectives, the government on Wednesday announced a revised quality control order for solar photovoltaic (PV) products.
The Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has issued the ‘Solar Systems, Devices, and Components Goods Order, 2025,’ which updates and replaces the existing solar photovoltaic, systems, devices, and components goods (requirements for compulsory registration) order of 2017.
According to the ministry's statement, “The revised order has been published in the Gazette of India through a Gazette Notification dated 27.01.2025 and will take effect 180 days following its publication.”
This order encompasses solar PV modules and inverters intended for solar PV applications, along with storage batteries.
Per the order, solar PV modules, inverters, and storage batteries must meet the most recent Indian standards (as specified by BIS) and display the Standard Mark under a license from the BIS.
It states, “Minimum efficiency criteria for solar PV modules have been established as follows – 18 percent for Mono Crystalline Silicon and Thin-Film PV Modules and 17 percent for Poly Crystalline Silicon PV Modules.”
The order is applicable to manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers, sellers, and lessors of solar PV systems and components.
As per the ministry, “The BIS will manage the licensing process and enforcement of the order. Market surveillance will be conducted by BIS or an agency appointed by BIS in collaboration with MNRE.”
This initiative highlights the MNRE’s dedication to maintaining the highest quality standards while promoting innovation and sustainability within the renewable energy sector.
The revised quality control order has been officially notified following extensive consultations spanning over 24 months with all pertinent stakeholders. It aligns with the government’s goal of advancing high-quality and efficient solar photovoltaic products for sustainable energy growth.
