The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has officially released a comprehensive roadmap for solar manufacturers to transition from the existing 2016 safety standards to the newly revised IS/IEC 61730:2023 for Photovoltaic (PV) Modules. This regulatory shift follows the “Solar Systems, Devices and Components Goods Order, 2025” issued by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), which came into force on July 27, 2025.
The update marks a significant leap in India’s solar quality infrastructure, aligning domestic safety requirements with the latest international benchmarks.
Implementation Timeline
To ensure a smooth transition and prevent market disruption, BIS has established a “Concurrent Running Period.”
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Now through February 15, 2027: Both the 2016 and 2023 versions of the standards will remain valid. Manufacturers can continue to register products under either version or begin the upgrade process.
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Post-February 15, 2027: Compliance with IS/IEC 61730:2023 becomes mandatory. After this date, no new licenses or scope changes will be granted under the 2016 version. Any models that have not successfully transitioned will be deleted from the manufacturer’s license scope.
Key Technical Advancements
The 2023 revision is not merely a documentation update; it introduces rigorous new requirements reflecting modern solar technology:
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Bifacial Module Specialization: For the first time, the standard includes dedicated testing sequences for bifacial modules, particularly those with high bifaciality stress (aBSI > 300 W/m²).
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Enhanced Component Safety: Stricter parameters have been set for junction boxes, connectors, and polymeric backsheets to improve fire resistance and electrical durability.
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Insulation Coordination: Revised rules for “Distance Through Insulation” (DTI) ensure modules can safely handle the 1500V DC system voltages now common in utility-scale projects.
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Revised Testing Sequences: New sequences (including F and G) have been added to Part 2 of the standard to verify long-term safety under environmental stress.
Path to Compliance: Partial Testing
Recognizing the cost of full re-certification, BIS has introduced a “Partial Testing” pathway for models already registered under the 2016 standard.
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Monofacial and Low-Bifaciality Modules: Manufacturers may omit several test sequences (A, B, B1, C, and E) and focus on specific sequences like D, F, and G to establish compliance.
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High-Bifaciality Modules: These require a more extensive set of sequences, including B, B1, C, D, E, F, and G, to account for the unique electrical characteristics of back-side light capture.
Action Plan for Manufacturers
Licensed manufacturers must act within the concurrent period to avoid license expiration. The process involves:
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Testing: Engaging with BIS-recognized Third-Party Testing Laboratories (TPTLs) to obtain valid test reports under the 2023 standard.
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Online Application: Submitting the transition request via the “Standard Revision / Amendment / Essential Requirement” module on the BIS portal.
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Official Confirmation: Once verified, BIS will issue a formal letter confirming the inclusion of compliant models under the revised standard.
Industry experts emphasize that while the 2027 deadline seems distant, the complexity of the new testing sequences—especially for bifacial products—means manufacturers should initiate the transition immediately. Staying ahead of these regulatory changes is crucial for maintaining market access and ensuring the long-term reliability of solar installations in India.
