A solar storage battery is a battery that is charged by a solar system connected to it, such as a photovoltaic system. For maintaining the quality of the product and protecting the consumer, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) makes it mandatory for BIS Registration of Storage Batteries as per IS 16270. The standard defines the safety and performance requirements of secondary cells and batteries used in energy storage systems.
This registration is under the Solar Systems, Devices, and Components Goods Order, 2025, to ensure quality standard requirements in India for lead-acid batteries, VRLA batteries, and lithium-based batteries. The registration involves testing the sample in a BIS-recognized lab and registering on the BIS portal.
Key Specifications of Storage Battery
The primary role of the storage battery is to help in the supply of electricity even when the sun is not out. The word "storage" refers to devices that can intercept electricity, store it in a different form of energy (chemical, thermal, or mechanical), and then give it out when needed. The best thing about solar and storage is that they offer a backup power source in the event of an electrical outage. In summary, the solar panel receives the solar energy from the sun and turns it into electricity.
The BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) certification is a crucial step in ensuring that your storage batteries meet the required quality and safety standards. As per the rules and regulations framed by the Government of India, the storage battery manufacturers are not allowed to import, distribute, or sell storage batteries that do not meet the required Indian standards as mentioned in IS 16270.
Key Highlights under IS 16270 Scheme II
Key Technical Specifications & Tests (IS 16270):
- Performance Tests: Validation of rated capacity (C10/C120), voltage regulation, and efficiency.
- Safety & Electrical Tests: Insulation resistance, short circuit protection, and maximum charge current (e.g., I10 A).
- Environmental & Thermal Tests: Prevention of thermal runaway, temperature rise assessment, and robustness against different conditions.
- Test Report: Valid for 3 years from a BIS-recognized laboratory.
- Applicability: Applicable to Indian and foreign battery manufacturers and importers.
- Updated Standard: IS 16270:2023 (including lithium batteries, new capacities, and long-duration C120) must be adopted by Dec 8, 2025.
Benefits of the BIS CRS Registration for Storage Battery
Advantages of Storage Battery BIS CRS Certification:
- Mandatory or Legal Requirement: The import or sale of storage batteries in India requires registration with the BIS (A legal requirement). Thus, if you hold a BIS Registration, you will not be subject to fines, confiscation, or limitations by the Indian government to be in compliance with Indian laws.
- Customer Preference and Loyalty: The BIS Certification represents quality as a trusted brand, which creates the opportunity for consumers to prefer certified products over non-certified products when they purchase items.
- Ability to Enter and Increase Market: By obtaining BIS Registration, the manufacturer/importer can conduct business within the Indian market. This means they can increase their ability to grow their business by getting into and expanding within the Indian Market.
- Competitive Edge: A product that has been certified by the BIS is perceived as better than one that is not. Therefore, manufacturers of electrical products and electric vehicles have an advantage over their competitors in selling their products by being able to offer a certified product as a marketing tool.
Document required for BIS registration under IS 16270
List of important documents manufacturers must have before applying for BIS registration:
- Duly filled and signed BIS application form.
- Original test report for IS 16270 from a BIS-recognized laboratory.
- Valid business license/manufacturing unit license in English (or translated).
- Component Data Form/Critical Component List, detailing safety-critical components.
- Detailed user manual or product specifications.
- Copy of the product label showing BIS marking requirements.
- ISO 9001:2015 certificate for the manufacturing unit.
- Proof of brand name ownership.
- If the applicant is not the CEO/Head of manufacturing.
- Nomination letter for AIR.
- Proof of AIR registration in India (e.g., IEC, GST).
- Photo ID of the authorized signatory.
Applicable Test Parameters for Storage Battery
The testing parameters given under IS 16270 are as follows:
- Capacity Test (Ah & Wh): Tests the capacity to store and supply energy, usually done at a 10-hour (C10) or 5-hour (C5) rate.
- Charge Retention & Recovery: Tests capacity retention during storage and the ability to recover after a recharge.
- Cycle Life Test: Tests the number of charge/discharge cycles before capacity drops to 80%.
- Voltage Stability: Tests the terminal voltage during discharge to ensure it remains within specified limits.
- Internal Resistance/Impedance: Tests the health (SoH) and efficiency of the battery, as high resistance indicates battery degradation.
Process of BIS CRS Certification of Storage Battery IS 16270
There are different processes for Indian and foreign manufacturers to register with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). To apply for BIS Registration, kindly follow these steps:
a). For Foreign Manufacturers:
- Appoint an Authorised Representative (who is based in India) to represent the foreign manufacturer
- Register on the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) portal
- Fill out an online application form
- Send samples for testing to a Bureau of Indian Standards-accredited laboratory, and upload the test results on the BIS portal.
- Make payment and submit the applications
- The Bureau of Indian Standards will review the application
- If there are no questions, the Bureau of Indian Standards will issue a license on behalf of the foreign manufacturer.
b). For Indian Manufacturers:
- Register on the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) portal
- Fill out an online application form
- Send samples for testing to a Bureau of Indian Standards-accredited laboratory, and upload the test results on the BIS portal.
- Make payment and submit the applications.
- The Bureau of Indian Standards will review the application
- If there are no questions, the Bureau of Indian Standards will issue a license on behalf of the foreign manufacturer.
Checklist of Points for Obtaining BIS Registration of IS 16270
The list of important things you must keep in mind for obtaining the BIS Mark:
- BIS Registration can only be granted to the Manufacturing Producer, subject to IS 16270 requirements and not to the Importer or Dealer.
- Separate registration will need to be completed for each Manufacturing Site.
- With respect to using up-to-date standards, those for testing battery characteristics after January 1, 2025, will be based on IS 16270:2023.
- An Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) must be appointed by Foreign Manufacturers for all product lines registered under a BIS Certificate.
- BIS Test Reports for products submitted by Manufacturers will only be valid for a period of 90 days from the original date on the test report or until the original test report is received by BIS.
BIS CRS Registration Fees in India for Storage Battery
The fees for BIS registration of the Utility –Interconnected Photovoltaic inverters are given below:
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COST FOR BIS REGISTRATION / ELECTRONICS PRODUCTS (Government Costs)
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Type of Fee
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New Application
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Renewal
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Inclusion
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Application Fee
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1000
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1000
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1000
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Processing Fee*
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25,000x2 = 50,000
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25,000x2 = 50,000
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15,000x2= 30,000
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Registration Fee*
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1000 x 2 = 2000
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1000 x 2 = 2000
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1000 x 2 = 2000
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Total
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53,000
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53,000
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30,000
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Note*
1. The processing fee and registration fee need to be paid within 2 years, as registration numbers will be granted initially for two years.
2. The cost of BIS registration will depend on the following factors:
· Location and Name of the Manufacturing Process (Overseas/ Domestic)
· Types of Products and model quantity
· Testing fee for the products
· Govt. Fee (BIS) and ERCS Service Fee
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How ERCS Private Limited Can Help You in Obtaining BIS Registration of Storage Battery IS 16270?
BIS registration for Storage Batteries under IS 16270 is a crucial requirement for the safety and functionality of Storage Batteries in the Indian market. ERCS Private Limited is committed to assisting manufacturers in obtaining certification.
- End-to-End Certification Support: Document preparation and lab testing, application submission, and approval – all managed by professionals.
- Fewer Delays and Faster Approvals: Pre-verification of documents and technical verification reduces the chances of BIS queries and rejections.
- Battery Compliance Expertise: IS 16270 compliance, testing conditions, packaging, and model categorisation – all expert advice.
- Services for Domestic and International Manufacturers: AIR services and full assistance for international manufacturers exporting to India.
- Post-Approval Compliance Support: Assistance with BIS marking, renewals, surveillance, and product updates.