Solar energy is becoming an important part of India's renewable energy sector. With the growing demand for solar power, batteries play a major role in storing electricity for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. These batteries ensure a continuous power supply when sunlight is unavailable.
To maintain product quality and safety, the Government of India has introduced mandatory compliance requirements for solar storage batteries. Manufacturers and importers must understand the BIS Certification for Batteries in Solar PV Systems before selling their products in the Indian market.
The certification process follows the applicable Indian Standards notified under the Solar Systems, Devices and Components Goods Order, 2025. The primary standard for solar storage batteries is IS 16270:2023.
1. What Is BIS Certification for Solar Batteries?
BIS Certification is a product conformity requirement managed by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). It ensures that products meet specified Indian quality, performance, and safety standards.
For solar photovoltaic applications, storage batteries must comply with IS 16270:2023, titled Secondary Cells and Batteries for Solar Photovoltaic Application – General Requirements and Methods of Test.
This standard covers rechargeable batteries used in solar PV applications. It includes requirements for battery capacity, charging performance, discharge characteristics, durability, and safety.
BIS Certification for Batteries in Solar PV Systems helps manufacturers demonstrate product compliance and allows eligible registered products to enter the Indian market.
2. Which Solar Batteries Require BIS Certification?
The revised IS 16270:2023 standard covers different types of rechargeable batteries used in solar photovoltaic applications.
Major battery categories include:
Lead-Acid Batteries: Commonly used in off-grid solar installations and backup power systems.
Lithium-Ion Batteries: Widely used in modern solar energy storage systems because of their energy density and charging performance.
Nickel-Based Batteries: Rechargeable batteries used in specific energy storage applications.
Other Secondary Batteries: Other rechargeable battery technologies covered by the applicable standard.
Manufacturers should identify their battery chemistry, design, and intended application before starting the certification process. Additional standards may also apply to specific lithium battery products.
3. Applicable BIS Standard for Solar PV Batteries
The main Indian Standard applicable to solar storage batteries is IS 16270:2023.
This standard replaced the earlier IS 16270:2014 version and expanded its scope to cover different rechargeable battery chemistries used in solar applications.
The standard specifies important technical requirements, including:
Rated battery capacity and performance.
Charging and discharging characteristics.
Charge retention and cycle-life performance.
Electrical safety requirements.
Battery construction and operational reliability.
BIS also issued Amendment No. 1 in 2025. Manufacturers must follow the applicable amended requirements, including the specified lithium battery discharge-testing conditions.
For lithium-based products, IS 16046 (Part 2):2018 may also apply, depending on the product category and applicable certification requirements.
4. Which BIS Certification Scheme Applies?
Solar storage batteries covered under the relevant mandatory order are registered through the BIS Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS), also known as Scheme II.
Under this scheme, manufacturers must complete the required product testing and registration process before selling covered products in India.
The registration process involves:
Testing products through an appropriate BIS-recognised laboratory.
Submitting technical documents and test reports.
Filing an application through the BIS CRS portal.
Completing BIS verification and registration requirements.
Using the BIS Standard Mark according to applicable guidelines.
Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) to manage the application and regulatory communication in India.
5. Documents Required for BIS CRS Registration
Manufacturers generally need to prepare the following documents:
Factory registration and manufacturing details.
Company incorporation documents.
Authorized signatory identification.
Product specifications and technical datasheets.
Battery model numbers and product photographs.
Circuit diagrams and relevant technical drawings.
Brand authorization or trademark documents, where applicable.
Test reports from an appropriate recognized laboratory.
Authorized Indian Representative documents for foreign manufacturers.
Self-Declaration of Conformity and other applicable declarations.
The exact documentation may vary depending on the manufacturer, product design, and application requirements.
6. Step-by-Step BIS Certification Process for Solar Batteries
Obtaining BIS Certification for Solar Batteries involves several important stages.
Step 1: Identify the Applicable Standard
Determine whether the battery falls under IS 16270:2023 and identify any additional applicable standards.
Step 2: Product Testing
Submit battery samples to an appropriate BIS-recognised laboratory for testing against the relevant technical and safety requirements.
Step 3: Prepare Documentation
Arrange factory details, product specifications, technical documents, and laboratory reports.
Step 4: Submit the CRS Application
File the registration application through the BIS online portal with the required information and supporting documents.
Step 5: BIS Verification
BIS reviews the application and supporting test reports. Additional clarification or documentation may be requested.
Step 6: Registration Approval
After successful verification, BIS grants registration for the approved product models. Manufacturers can then use the BIS Standard Mark according to the applicable requirements.
7. Why Is BIS Certification Important for Solar Battery Manufacturers?
BIS compliance is important for manufacturers and importers supplying regulated solar storage batteries in India.
Its major benefits include:
Helps meet mandatory Indian regulatory requirements.
Demonstrates product quality and safety compliance.
Builds customer confidence in solar battery products.
Supports lawful market entry in India.
Reduces the risk of regulatory non-compliance.
Improves credibility among distributors and business partners.
Conclusion
BIS Certification for Batteries in Solar PV Systems is an important regulatory requirement for manufacturers and importers dealing with covered solar storage batteries in India. Compliance with IS 16270:2023 and its applicable amendments helps ensure that products meet the required technical and safety standards.
Eikomp provides professional assistance with BIS CRS registration, product testing coordination, documentation, and regulatory compliance. Whether you manufacture lithium-ion or lead-acid solar batteries, Eikomp can help you understand the applicable requirements and navigate the certification process efficiently.
