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MNRE Extends Self-Certification Window for BIS Compliance of High-Capacity Solar Inverters Until December 31, 2026

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has extended the deadline for mandatory Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification of Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) inverters with capacities above 200 kW, allowing manufacturers to continue supplying these products based on self-certification until December 31, 2026, or until further orders, whichever is earlier. The extension is intended to provide the industry with additional time to comply with certification requirements amid limited testing infrastructure.

According to the ministry, the decision has been taken in view of the limited availability of BIS-recognized testing facilities capable of handling high-capacity solar inverter certification. The extension is expected to prevent disruptions in the supply of utility-scale solar inverters while enabling manufacturers to complete the certification process without affecting ongoing renewable energy projects.

The notification applies to Items 4 and 5 of the Solar Systems, Devices and Components Goods Order, 2025, which came into force after replacing the Solar Photovoltaics, Systems, Devices and Components Goods (Requirements for Compulsory Registration) Order, 2017. The 2025 order introduced mandatory BIS registration for five categories of solar products following a 180-day transition period, with the objective of ensuring higher product quality, safety, and reliability across India's rapidly expanding solar sector.

The latest order also supersedes the previous extension issued on August 5, 2025, under which manufacturers of SPV inverters above 200 kW were permitted to supply products through self-certification until June 30, 2026. Under the revised provisions, manufacturers may continue to avail the self-certification route provided they possess valid IEC conformity certificates corresponding to the applicable Indian Standards, along with test reports issued by accredited laboratories.

Solar inverters serve as one of the most critical components of photovoltaic power plants, converting direct current (DC) generated by solar modules into grid-compatible alternating current (AC). Inverters with capacities exceeding 200 kW are widely deployed in utility-scale solar projects, where reliability and compliance with technical standards are essential for efficient grid integration and long-term plant performance.

The extension is expected to provide relief to inverter manufacturers, EPC contractors, and utility-scale solar developers by ensuring continuity in equipment supply while maintaining the government's focus on quality assurance. As India continues to expand its renewable energy capacity and domestic manufacturing ecosystem, the gradual implementation of BIS certification is expected to strengthen product standardization, improve consumer confidence, and support the long-term reliability of the country's solar infrastructure.