BIS Certification for High-Voltage Switchgear & Controlgear (Above 1000V)

As India rapidly advances toward an electrified future, the importance of high-voltage switchgear and controlgear systems cannot be overstated. These advanced electrical systems, designed to handle voltages above 1000V, are vital to energy transmission, industrial automation, and infrastructure development. To strengthen safety, performance, and compliance across this critical segment, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has mandated Scheme X Certification for all such equipment, effective from 28th August 2025.

In this guide, we explore the relevance, scope, and procedural roadmap of this certification—crucial knowledge for manufacturers, importers, and EPC contractors operating in this domain.

What Are High-Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear Systems?

High-voltage switchgear and controlgear are specialized electrical devices designed to control, isolate, and safeguard power systems that operate at voltages exceeding 1000 volts. They form the backbone of high-power installations such as grid substations, heavy industries, and renewable energy plants.

Common Components:

HV Circuit Breakers
Disconnectors and Earthing Switches
Gas-Insulated Switchgear (GIS)
SF₆ and Vacuum Switchgear
Surge Protection Devices
Instrument Transformers
Metal-Clad or Metal-Enclosed Assemblies

These systems function in challenging environments where accuracy, safety, and dependable performance are absolutely essential.

Introduction to BIS Scheme X Certification

To bring the industry in line with global safety and quality standards, BIS introduced Scheme X Certification under the Conformity Assessment Regulations (2018). Launched on 16th March 2022, the scheme is aimed at:

Electrical machines and high-voltage components
Complex switchgear systems
Industrial control equipment

In March 2024, the Ministry of Heavy Industries mandated compliance via the Omnibus Technical Regulation Order, giving stakeholders until 28th August 2025 to certify their products under Scheme X.

Why Certification Is Crucial for High-Voltage Equipment

Certification under BIS is not just a formality—it’s a national mandate for safer and more reliable power infrastructure.

Key Benefits:

Electrical Safety: Prevents hazardous arc flashes, short circuits, and insulation failures.
Operational Integrity: Minimizes outages and improves uptime.
Quality Assurance: Ensures adherence to relevant Indian Standards (IS).
Market Fairness: Levels the playing field for Indian and international manufacturers.
Eco-Compliance: Promotes sustainable alternatives like vacuum and dry-insulated switchgear.

Scope of Certification under Scheme X

The Scheme X mandate applies to:

All high-voltage switchgear and controlgear operating above 1000V
Entire systems, subassemblies, and key individual components
Equipment used in power generation, industrial automation, and grid transmission

Also Read: Quality Control Order for Scheme-X

Manufacturers, importers, OEMs, and system integrators must ensure their products conform to BIS standards for each functional unit.

BIS Certification Process: Step-by-Step

Here’s a simplified breakdown of the Scheme X compliance process:

Product Classification: Verify if your equipment is included in the mandatory list—specifically if it operates above 1000V and is intended for switching, control, or protection functions.
Documentation: Prepare technical files including:
- Product drawings and specs
- Quality management documentation
- Manufacturing flowchart
- Test results and compliance reports
- Safety & performance datasheets
Online Application: Submit your application through the BIS portal under Scheme X, attaching all relevant documents.
Sample Testing: Send representative product samples to BIS-accredited labs. Evaluation covers:
- Dielectric and insulation performance
- Mechanical durability
- Short-circuit withstand
- Temperature and environmental behavior
Factory Audit: BIS inspectors visit your manufacturing site to verify:
- Production line and process controls
- Internal testing infrastructure
- Quality assurance protocols
- Instrument calibration and labeling systems
Certification Grant: Upon successful audit and testing, BIS issues a Scheme X License, authorizing the use of the ISI mark on certified products.

Compliance Timeline

Deadline for Mandatory Certification: 28th August 2025
Recommended Start Date: Q2 of 2024, to account for testing queues, document review, and factory inspections.

Benefits of BIS Scheme X Certification

Advantage	Impact
Legal Clearance	Enables lawful manufacture, sale, and distribution in India
Enhanced Safety	Safeguards personnel and systems in HV environments
Global Credibility	BIS standards harmonized with IEC norms
Customer Confidence	ISI mark strengthens credibility with utilities & EPC firms
Bid Eligibility	Required for participation in government tenders
Eco-Conscious Design	Encourages SF₆-free, sustainable technologies

Also Read: FOREIGN MANUFACTURER CERTIFICATION SERVICES

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Risks of Non-Compliance

Failure to certify by the deadline may lead to:

Product bans, recalls, or market seizure
Disqualification from public tenders
Legal action under the BIS Act, 2016
Reputational damage
Costly delays in project commissioning

Final Thoughts

The Indian government’s focus on self-reliant, world-class infrastructure is anchored in policies like Scheme X Certification. For manufacturers of high-voltage switchgear and controlgear, this isn't just a regulatory requirement—it’s an opportunity to build trust, ensure safety, and gain competitive advantage.

With the 28th August 2025 deadline approaching fast, early action is the best strategy. Begin the certification journey today to secure your place in India’s power future.

For more information contact us at cs@absoluteveritas.com