The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has issued new guidelines for the implementation of the revised standard IS 16270: 2023, relating to secondary cells and batteries for solar photovoltaic applications. This standard, which specifies the general requirements and methods of testing, was revised and notified under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy’s Solar Systems, Devices and Components Goods Order, 2025. The new guidelines come into effect immediately and will impact existing licensees, new applicants, and those seeking a change in the scope of their license.
What’s New in IS 16270: 2023?
The updated IS 16270: 2023 supersedes the earlier version (IS 16270: 2014) and includes significant changes to better address the growing demand and advancements in solar photovoltaic applications. The key revisions are:
- Maximum Charge Current: The maximum charge current has been set to 10 A (4.3.3 a), a critical parameter for battery performance.
- Inclusion of Lithium Batteries: Lithium battery types and other electrochemical technologies have been added to Tables 1 and 2, ensuring that newer, more efficient battery technologies are covered.
- Lithium Cells and Batteries Standards: Additional requirements for lithium cells and batteries are included under section 7.2.
- Long Duration Capacity: A new inclusion of long duration capacity (C120) is introduced in section 8.1.
- Rated Capacity Requirement: Section 8.1.1 highlights the requirement for the rated capacity of batteries, ensuring consistency in performance standards.
Guidelines for Implementation
1. Existing Licensees:
- Action Required: Existing licensees are required to implement the revised IS 16270: 2023 by the date of implementation of the Solar Systems, Devices and Components Goods Order, 2025.
- Test Reports: Licensees must submit complete test reports from third-party laboratories for all lead models that were previously tested according to the old IS 16270: 2014 standard. This ensures compliance with the new version.
- Undertaking: Additionally, licensees need to provide an undertaking confirming that the new requirements are applied to other existing models within the scope of their license.
- Failure to Comply: If these actions are not completed by the implementation date, BIS may initiate the cancellation of the license or deletion of models from the scope of the license.
2. New Applicants:
- Application Processing: From now on, all new applications will be processed according to the revised IS 16270: 2023 standard. However, applications can still be processed based on the older standard (IS 16270: 2014) up until 27 July 2025.
- Declaration of Intent: For applications processed without the revision, applicants must provide a declaration stating their commitment to comply with the revised standard by the final implementation date.
- Post-July 2025: Beyond 27 July 2025, no license will be granted under the old standard.
3. Changes in Scope of License:
- Scope Change Requests: For license holders wishing to change the scope of their license, the same provisions for applicants will apply. Requests for scope changes based on the old standard will only be processed until 27 July 2025, after which compliance with the revised IS 16270: 2023 will be mandatory.
Why This Matters
The revision of IS 16270: 2023 brings India’s solar photovoltaic industry in line with modern technological advancements in battery technology. With the inclusion of lithium batteries and long-duration capacity, the revised standard ensures more efficient and reliable solar energy storage systems, which is crucial for the growth of the renewable energy sector. These changes reflect the ongoing commitment to improving the performance, safety, and longevity of solar photovoltaic systems in India.
What Should You Do?
If you're an existing licensee, it's time to assess your current models and submit the necessary documentation for compliance. For new applicants or those looking to change the scope of their license, it’s essential to act quickly and align with the revised standard before the cut-off date of 27 July 2025.
These guidelines are in force immediately, and it’s vital to stay updated to ensure your solar photovoltaic products remain compliant with the latest requirements. For more detailed information or assistance, feel free to contact the Bureau of Indian Standards.
Stay Compliant, Stay Ahead!
By following these guidelines, you contribute to the future of renewable energy in India and help advance solar technology for a sustainable tomorrow. Stay on top of these important changes to continue your operations smoothly and without disruption.
