Solar Systems Order 2025: Key Updates and Industry Implications

On January 27, 2025, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) introduced a significant regulatory update for India’s solar energy sector—the Solar Systems, Devices, and Components Goods Order, 2025. This order, which will take effect 180 days from its publication, replaces the Solar Photovoltaics, Systems, Devices, and Components Goods (Requirements for Compulsory Registration) Order, 2017.

Key Highlights of the Order

1. Mandatory Standard Mark for Solar Products

To ensure the quality and safety of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, devices, and components, all listed products must adhere to the relevant Indian Standards (IS) and display the "Standard Mark" under a Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) license as per the Conformity Assessment Scheme.

2. Efficiency Benchmarks for Solar PV Modules

A key change in the 2025 Order is the introduction of minimum efficiency requirements for solar PV modules, pushing manufacturers towards more advanced technologies:

• Mono Crystalline Silicon PV Modules: Minimum 18% efficiency at Standard Test Conditions (STC).

• Poly Crystalline Silicon PV Modules: Minimum 17% efficiency at STC.

• Thin-Film PV Modules: Efficiency standards vary by technology (e.g., CdTe, a-Si, Cu(In, Ga)(S, Se)₂).

3. Certification & Compliance Monitoring

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) will oversee certification, ensuring only compliant products are sold in the market through strict enforcement and surveillance mechanisms.

4. Impact on Existing Product Licenses

Manufacturers with valid BIS licenses under the 2017 Order can continue operations. However, for renewals or new certifications, compliance with the updated efficiency standards is required.

5. Penalties for Non-Compliance

Non-adherence to the order, including failure to meet efficiency and quality benchmarks, will result in penalties as per the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016.

6. Product Categories Covered

The order specifies the required Indian Standards (IS) and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards for various solar products, including:

• Crystalline Silicon Terrestrial PV Modules

• Thin-Film Terrestrial PV Modules (CdTe, a-Si, Cu(In, Ga)(S, Se)₂)

• Solar Storage Batteries

• Solar Power Inverters (Standalone & Grid-Connected)

7. Transition Timeline

The new regulations will come into effect 180 days after publication, providing manufacturers, importers, and distributors adequate time to obtain BIS certification and align with the updated requirements.

Conclusion

The Solar Systems, Devices, and Components Goods Order, 2025 aims to enhance the quality, safety, and efficiency of solar energy products in India. With the growing demand for renewable energy, this move ensures that only high-quality, performance-driven products enter the market, aligning India with global solar standards.

Manufacturers, importers, and distributors are urged to review the new regulations and initiate necessary compliance measures to avoid disruptions.

For any questions regarding the most recent update on BIS registration licenses, please reach out to us via email at cs@absoluteveritas.com