Introduction

Last year, a solar EPC company in Pune approached us with a challenge. They had imported a batch of 5,000 solar inverters from a leading European brand. When they tried to release them in the Indian market, customs stopped the consignment. Reason? The products did not have BIS Certification under IS 16221 (Part 2):2015.

This was not just a paperwork delay. Every month of storage at port cost them nearly ₹7 lakhs in demurrage charges. Ultimately, they had to fly down BIS-approved lab engineers to test and certify the inverters. Only then could they sell legally in India.

This story is not unique. Whether you are a domestic manufacturer in Bengaluru or an importer in Delhi, if you’re dealing with solar inverters or power inverters, BIS registration is non-negotiable. Let’s break down why.

What is BIS Certification?

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is India's national standards agency. It assures that products coming into, or sold in, India meet required quality and safety standards.

For electronic and solar energy equipment, BIS runs a Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS). Under CRS, no manufacturer or importer can sell their product without BIS approval.

In short:

• BIS = Quality + Safety + Legal Clearance
  
  

• Without BIS: Customs block, penalties, and market trust issues.
  
  

Why BIS Certification for Solar & Power Inverters Matters

Solar adoption in India is beginning to accelerate with government targets of 500 GW of renewable energy operational by 2030. The inverter is the heart of that ecosystem whereby the DC power that is captured into usable AC power.

However, an inverter that does not work, can be a source of fire, voltage spikes, and hazards. 

BIS certification ensures:

• Compliance with IS 16221 (Part 2):2015 – Safety of Power Converters for Use in Photovoltaic Systems
  
  

• No risk of electrical accidents
  
  

• Easy market acceptance for solar EPCs and distributors
  
  

Standard in Focus: IS 16221 (Part 2):2015

The applicable standard for solar and power inverters is:

• IS 16221 (Part 2):2015 – Safety of Power Converters for Use in Photovoltaic Power Systems, Part 2: Particular Requirements for Inverters
  
  

This standard is harmonised with international IEC guidelines but tailored for Indian grid conditions. It covers:

• Over-voltage and surge protection
  
  

• Isolation and insulation resistance
  
  

• Thermal performance and fire safety
  
  

• Output power quality
  
  

Who Needs BIS Certification?

• Indian Manufacturers: Regardless of whether your manufacturing facility is in Noida or Coimbatore, and regardless of whether you produce grid tied or hybrid inverters, you must comply with registration through BIS.
  
  

• Importers: You must also have BIS registration for inverters coming from Germany, China or the USA.
  
  

• OEMs & Distributors: Even if you rebrand imported inverters, certification must be in your name.
  
  

Process of BIS Certification for Solar & Power Inverters

Here’s the step-by-step breakdown we usually explain to clients:

Step 1: Identify Standard & Product Category

Your inverter falls under IS 16221 (Part 2):2015. Confirm product classification and scope.

Step 2: Application Filing with BIS

Submit application through the BIS CRS portal with details of manufacturer, product, and lab selection.

Step 3: Testing at BIS-Recognised Lab

Inverter samples are sent to an approved laboratory. Tests cover safety, performance, and electrical compliance.

Step 4: Factory Inspection (for foreign brands)

For overseas manufacturers, BIS may send auditors to verify facilities.

Step 5: Grant of Licence

Once the product passes, BIS issues a unique Registration Number (R-Number). This must be printed on every unit and packaging.

Timelines & Costs

• Domestic manufacturers: 4–6 weeks
  
  

• Foreign manufacturers: 8–12 weeks (due to factory audits)
  
  

Cost heads include:

• Testing fees (₹2–5 lakhs depending on rating)
  
  

• BIS application fee
  
  

• Inspection and professional consultancy charges
  
  

Benefits of BIS Certification

1. Legal Market Entry – No product seizures or customs delays
   
   

2. Customer Trust – Buyers see BIS as a mark of reliability
   
   

3. Tenders & Subsidies – Government projects require BIS-approved inverters
   
   

4. Brand Credibility – Competes with giants like ABB, Sungrow, and Delta Electronics
   
   

5. Zero Risk of Penalties – Avoid hefty fines and business disruptions
   
   

Common Challenges & Solutions

• Challenge: Foreign brands struggle with BIS lab testing delays.
  Solution: We help pre-test in accredited labs before formal filing.
  
  

• Challenge: Customs hold shipments citing missing BIS.
  Solution: Apply for provisional licence while full certification is under process.
  
  

• Challenge: Small manufacturers fear costs.
  Solution: Shared batch testing and consultancy can cut expenses by 30%.

Conclusion

In India's growing solar industry, BIS Certification for Solar and Power Inverters under IS 16221 (Part 2):2015 is more than a regulation - it is a business enabler. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) provides to the community criteria that are required, as by assuring safety, reliability and faith.

If you are a manufacturer or an importer, the earlier you connect with BIS, the more likely you will be established in the market.

FAQ 

Q1. Is BIS certification mandatory for all types of inverters?
Yes, under CRS, both off-grid and grid-tied inverters require BIS registration as per IS 16221 (Part 2):2015. Without it, sale or import is illegal.

Q2. How long does it take to get BIS certification?
Typically, 6–8 weeks for domestic units. For foreign manufacturers, factory inspections may extend timelines to 10–12 weeks.

Q3. Can imported inverters be sold without BIS?
No. Customs authorities will detain non-compliant consignments. A valid BIS R-number must be printed on packaging and product.

Q4. What is the difference between BIS and IEC certification?
IEC is an international standard. BIS adapts IEC requirements to Indian grid and safety conditions. For Indian market entry, BIS is compulsory even if IEC is already obtained.

Q5. Does BIS certification cover warranty claims?
No. BIS ensures product safety and compliance but warranty remains the manufacturer’s responsibility.

If you want to renew your certification contact Best BIS Certification Consultant Diligence Certification to get End-to-End Service and hassle free certification. Visit our website :-https://www.diligencecertification.com/