BIS Certification for Energy Meters in India

In today’s energy-intensive economy, energy meters play a critical role in measuring, monitoring, and billing electricity consumption in residential, industrial, and commercial sectors. These devices ensure accuracy, transparency, and accountability in energy usage, making them indispensable for utility providers and consumers alike.

To maintain consistent quality and performance, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) mandates BIS certification for energy meters under specific Indian Standards. Depending on the type and usage, energy meters are certified under:

• IS 13010: AC Induction Watt-Hour Meters (Class 0.5, 1, 2)

• IS 13779: AC Static Watt-Hour Meters (Class 1, 2)

• IS 14697: Static Transformer-Operated Watt-Hour & VAR-Hour Meters (Class 0.2S, 0.5S)

Trusted consultancies like Absolute Veritas help manufacturers navigate the BIS certification process efficiently, ensuring compliance and faster market access.

Key Indian Standards for BIS Certification of Energy Meters

1. IS 13010 – AC Induction Watt-Hour Meters (Class 0.5, 1, 2)

This standard pertains to electromechanical (induction-type) energy meters designed for use in single-phase or three-phase AC electrical systems.

• Applications: Residential and small-scale industrial energy billing

• Accuracy Classes: 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0

• Design Requirements: Protective casing, anti-reverse feature, robust terminals

• Testing: Torque testing, insulation resistance measurement, temperature variation analysis, along with routine and type testing.

• Status: Gradually being replaced by static meters

2. IS 13779 – AC Static Watt-Hour Meters (Class 1, 2)

This widely recognized Indian Standard applies to solid-state (electronic) energy meters used for accurate active energy measurement in AC power systems.

• Scope: Single-phase and three-phase indoor/outdoor electronic meters

• Accuracy Classes: Class 1 and 2

• Testing Parameters: EMC, insulation, thermal and mechanical endurance

• Popular Use: Domestic and commercial metering

3. IS 14697 – Static Transformer-Operated Watt-Hour & VAR-Hour Meters (Class 0.2S, 0.5S)

Designed for high-precision industrial and utility metering, this standard applies to CT-operated meters for active and reactive energy.

• Applications: HT (High Tension) connections, DISCOMs, and large commercial facilities

• Measurement Classes: Active Energy: 0.2S, 0.5S , Reactive Energy: 0.2S, 0.5S, 1S

• Testing: Harmonics, temperature cycle response, and factory test compliance

Regulatory Requirement: BIS Quality Control Order (QCO), 2003

As per the BIS QCO issued under S.O. 189(E) dated February 17, 2003, all energy meters in India—whether manufactured, stored, sold, or distributed—must:

• Comply with their respective Indian Standards (IS)

• Bear the official ISI Mark to confirm BIS certification

BIS Certification Process for Energy Meters in India

1. Application Submission: Manufacturer submits product and factory information

2. Product Testing: Samples tested at BIS-approved laboratories

3. Factory Audit: BIS inspectors assess quality systems and manufacturing processes

4. License Grant: ISI Mark license issued upon compliance

5. Surveillance & Renewal: Ongoing audits and random product testing for continued certification