BIS Registration (CRS) for Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) Modules

Thin-film Terrestrial photovoltaic (PV) modules are composed of very thin layers of semiconductor material on substrates such as plastic, glass, or metal. They are flexible and lightweight and are used mainly in building-integrated photovoltaics and semi-transparent solar glass. There are three types of thin-film PV modules: Amorphous Silicon (a-Si), Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (Cu(In, Ga)(S, Se)2), and Cadmium Telluride (CdTe).

As a measure for ensuring the performance and safety of the product, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has made BIS Registration of Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic modules mandatory for manufacturers under IS 14286 Part 1 (Sec 2,3,4), IS/IEC 61730-1 & 2, as per the Compulsory Registration Scheme.

 

Key Specifications of Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) Modules (a-Si, Cu(In, Ga)(S, Se)2 and CdTe)

Thin-film terrestrial photovoltaic (PV) panels (amorphous silicon (a-Si), copper indium gallium selenide (Cu(In, Ga)(S, Se)2), and cadmium telluride (CdTe)) are advanced solar panels that are created by depositing ultra-thin layers of semiconductor material on substrates like glass, metal, or plastic. Thin film technologies include:

• Amorphous silicon (a-Si): Which is commonly used in building-integrated photovoltaic applications and low-power devices.
• Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (Cu(In, Ga)(S, Se)2): A high-efficiency thin film PV technology that has good performance in low-light and high-heat environments.
• Cadmium telluride (CdTe): One of the most commercially developed thin film PV technologies currently installed in utility-scale applications.

 

Key Highlights for IS 14286 Part 1, (Sec 2, Sec 3 & Sec 4), IS 61730-1 & 2

Applicable Standard for Design Qualification, Safety Qualification, Construction & Testing Requirements under Indian BIS regulations: 

 

a). Thermal & Environmental Stress Tests (IS 14286):

• Thermal cycling (hot and cold), humidity freeze, and damp heat exposure to simulate field conditions.
• Ensures thin-film modules retain performance after repeated temperature and moisture stresses.

 

b). Safety Construction Requirements (IS/IEC 61730-1):

• Defines minimum construction safety criteria, including insulation, creepage and clearance distances, grounding, and protection against electrical shock.
• Focus on module build quality, encapsulation materials, frame integrity, and electrical safety design.

 

c). Safety Testing Requirements (IS/IEC 61730-2):

• Mandates safety tests, including electric shock resistance, fire hazard evaluation, and environmental stressors.
• Insulation resistance, wet leakage current, and fire classification tests ensure safe field operation.

 

Benefits of BIS Registration for Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) Modules

To ensure compliance of Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) Modules with required standards for safety, quality, and performance, BIS Registration for Thin-Film Terrestrial PV Modules confirms that the modules meet the requirements of IS 14286 Part 1 and Section 2/3/4 & IS/IEC 61730-1/2

The benefits include: 

• Enable legal manufacturing, importing, and selling of thin-film PV modules in India, ensuring product safety, dependability, and longevity.
• Promote confidence to EPC companies, project marketers/developers, and government authorities.
• Position to participate in government tender opportunities for utility-scale solar projects.
• Differentiate from competition in the Indian solar market.
• Lower technical risks through the use of standard testing & evaluation procedures.

 

Documents Required for BIS Registration of Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) Modules 

• Completed BIS Application Form.
• Valid Business License/Certificate of Incorporation of the manufacturing unit (with English translation).
• ISO Certificate of the manufacturing facility.
• Trademark Registration Certificate, if applicable.
• Test Reports from a BIS-recognized laboratory as per IS 14286 Part 1 and Section 2/3/4, IS/IEC 61730-1, and IS/IEC 61730-2.
• CDF (Component Data Form) / CCL (Component Compliance List).
• Technical Specification Sheet/User Manual.
• Marking Label Details (Product labeling information).
• Nomination Letter for the Authorized Indian Representative (AIR).
• Photo ID and Proof of Address of the AIR.
• Authorization Letter from the CEO/Head of Manufacturing.
• Affidavit (for foreign manufacturers).

 

Applicable test parameters for Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) Modules

The test parameters ensure Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) Modules comply with IS 14286 Part 1 and Section 2/3/4 & IS/IEC 61730-1/2 standards, confirming safety, performance, and long-term reliability for the Indian solar market.

• Visual & Initial Performance Tests: Visual inspection for defects, maximum power (Pmax) measurement, I-V curve testing under STC, and insulation resistance verification.
• Thermal & Environmental Stress Tests: Thermal cycling, damp heat, humidity freeze, UV preconditioning, and outdoor exposure testing to evaluate durability.
• Mechanical Strength Tests: Mechanical load, hail impact, and robustness of terminations tests to assess structural integrity.
• Electrical Safety Tests (IS/IEC 61730-1/2): Wet leakage current, dielectric withstand (high-voltage), ground continuity, and electric shock protection verification.
• Fire & Safety Evaluation: Fire resistance testing, flammability assessment, and hot-spot endurance testing to ensure safe module operation.

 

Know More: BIS CRS Registration in India

 

Process of BIS CRS Certification of Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) Modules

The BIS Registration procedure can vary depending on whether you are a foreign manufacturer or a domestic manufacturer. Take a look on steps for obtaining the BIS Mark of Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) Modules: 

a). Registration steps for foreign manufacturers are outlined below:  

• You need to choose an Indian Representative who will represent the FMCS organization.  
• BIS Portal Account registration  
• The application form needs to be completed online.  
• The procedure requires sample testing at a BIS-accredited laboratory and the subsequent upload of test results to the BIS Portal.  
• The application requires both payment and submission of documents.  
• BIS will review your application.  
• The license will be issued by BIS when there are no questions about the application. 

 

b). The following is an overview of the steps for domestic manufacturers:  

• BIS Portal Account registration  
• The application form needs to be completed online.  
• The procedure requires sample testing at a BIS-accredited laboratory and the subsequent upload of test results to the BIS Portal.  
• The application requires both payment and submission of documents.  
• BIS will review your application.  
• The license will be issued by BIS when there are no questions about the application.  

 

Checklist of Points for Obtaining BIS Registration of IS 14286 Part 1 and Section 2/3/4, IS/IEC 61730-1 & 2

Important Points to Remember Before BIS Registration:

• Accurate Testing & Standards: Testing should be done at a BIS-recognized lab specifically for IS 14286 Part 1 and Section 2/3/4 and IS 61730-1 & 2.
• Revised Standard Compliance: New applications should comply with revised standards (IS 14286, IS/IEC 61730-1).
• Critical Components List (CCL): The CCL and CDF (Construction Data Form) should be filled in accurately to avoid rejection of the application.
• Test Report Validity: Test reports are valid for only 3 months (90 days) from the date of issue; the application should be submitted within this validity period.
• Documentation: Documents to be prepared include factory license, technical specifications, label drawings, and, for foreign manufacturers, an appointed Indian Authorized Representative (AIR).
• Series Formation: Models should be grouped as per BIS guidelines for series formation (IS/IEC TS 62915) to reduce testing costs.
• Labelling Requirements: The product should display the Standard Mark (BIS Mark), R-number, and corresponding IS standards as per BIS guidelines.

 

BIS CRS Registration Fees in India for Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) Modules 

The fees for BIS registration of the IS 14286 Part 1 and Section 2/3/4, IS/IEC 61730-1 & 2 are given below:

 

How ERCS Private Limited Can Be Your Top BIS Consultant? 

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• Extensive experience managing a variety of BIS certification projects from multiple industries, including solar, electronics, chemicals, and industrial products
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