Overview of BIS Registration for Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic Inverters

Utility-interconnected photovoltaic inverter, or more commonly a grid-connected solar inverter, is a critical component of solar energy installation. They connect photovoltaic (PV) panels to the grid of the utility company and convert the unstable direct current (DC) generated by solar panels to alternating current (AC) to be utilized in the home or business. IS 16221:2014 controls the performance and safety features of such inverters. It also outlines the test methods for testing PV systems running parallel to the grid with static (solid-state) non-islanding inverters. For BIS Registration for Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic Inverters, it has been made mandatory by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS). BIS certification for Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic Inverters is valid for 2 years. Re-submission has to be made before expiration with new documents and fees. Otherwise, the license is revoked, and the product is not allowed to be sold in India until re-certification.

Basic Requisites for BIS Registration for Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic Inverters

Before being certified by BIS, the manufacturers have to meet the four blanket requirements:

• Manufacturer – Only the manufacturer and not importers and distributors receive a BIS licence. The importers may become Authorized Indian Representatives (AIR) of the foreign manufacturer, yet the ultimate licence will remain in the manufacturer's name
• Manufacturing Address – Factory address should be properly stated. If the individual has more than one factory to produce the same type of product, then a different license should be issued to every factory.
• Product – Each type of product should have its own licence. But various models of the same type of product may be registered with one registration.
• Brand/Trademark – Every brand or trademark should be separately registered with a separate BIS Registration.

The above four pillars are the basis of BIS certification for Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic Inverters.

Procedure for BIS Registration for Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic Inverters

The procedure is a bit different for foreign and local manufacturers, but it is a standard process that establishes safety and compatibility.

A) Procedure for Foreign Manufacturer

Foreign producers are required to undertake the following steps to gain BIS Registration of Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic Inverters:

• Appointment of Authorized Indian Representative (AIR).
• Online submission on the BIS portal.
• Product samples are submitted to a BIS-approved test laboratory.
• Hard copy + test report application package is submitted.
• BIS Authority checks documents and applications.
• A license is issued by BIS upon successful verification.

AIR Nomination Guidelines

Foreign applicants without an Indian branch will be required to have an Authorized Indian Representative to manage BIS matters. Regulations are:

• Clause 1 – In case the manufacturer has a liaison/branch office, the same will be referred to as AIR.
• Clause 2 – Where there is no office but is based in India, then they will be referred to as AIR.
• Clause 3 – And where none of the foregoing scenarios holds good, then some other Indian party can be deemed as AIR.

B) Domestic Manufacturer Process

Where Indian manufacturers are involved, it is easy:

• File an online application through the BIS portal.
• Test the samples in a laboratory certified by BIS.
• File the complete file along with the test report.
• BIS verifies the submission.
• Licence is issued.

How the Bureau works for BIS Registration for Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic Inverters

The process of the Bureau of Indian Standards is as follows:

• Check and verify all the submitted forms.
• Check lab test reports against IS 16221:2014.
• Inspect if needed.
• Issue the BIS Licence after completing all the requirements.
• It prevents uncertified and unsafe inverters from reaching the Indian market.

Documents for BIS Registration for Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic Inverters

The following documents should be prepared and submitted by the applicants:

• Filled out the BIS application form.
• Construction Data Form (CDF) and Critical Component List (CCL).
• Manufacturing unit's business license (local + English translation).
• Scope of business license.
• Manufacturer's ISO certificate.
• Product label/marking details.
• Authorization letter (if the signatory is not the factory head).
• Trademark certificate + authorization letter (if required).
• AIR's proof of company registration (for foreign applicants).
• AIR photo ID or photo ID of authorized signatory.
• Technical specification sheet and user manual of the product.

Tips for Getting BIS Registration for Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic Inverters

To make BIS License for Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic Inverters easy, manufacturers should remember:

• Choose a BIS-approved test laboratory having active accreditation.
• Make sure the laboratory is not under suspension or undergoing an audit at the time of testing.
• Organize general shipping arrangements for product samples.
• Check documents signed, stamped, and notarized by the brand owner, manufacturer, and AIR.
• Fill CDF and CCL forms meticulously with precise product information.
• Test reports are 90 days; submit within this period.
• Prepare all documents before testing begins.
• BIS sanctions registrations in 15–30 days maximum, but up to 60 days.

Benefits of BIS Registration for Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic Inverters

BIS certification advantages manufacturers in the following ways:

• Meets Indian safety and performance standards according to law.
• Market clearance to sell in the Indian market.
• Increased market credibility and customer trust.
• Greater leeway for global manufacturers to establish themselves in the Indian solar market
• Shield from penalty, product recall, or market prohibition.
• Guarantee of reliability of product, quality, and long-term performance.
• Competitive advantage against non-certified companies that are doing business within the market.
• Exporter opportunity facilitation and global acceptability.
• Positive brand reputation and public trust.
• Improved business survivability and resilience through regulation adherence.

With each step of the Indian solar industry, product safety and compliance are top concerns. BIS Registration for Utility-Interconnected Photovoltaic Inverters – IS 16221:2014 is not merely statutory compliance but also the key driver to achieving customer confidence and business market growth. Either as an Indian firm or a foreign entity, ensuring BIS compliance is the assurance of product acceptability and smooth market access in India.