MNRE Extends Compliance Deadline For Solar Inverters Above 100 kW To December 2025

The MNRE had earlier introduced the “Solar Photovoltaics, Systems, Devices and Components Goods (Requirements for Compulsory Registration) Order, 2017” under notification S.O. 2920 (E) dated September 5, 2017. This order covered six products and was set to be implemented from September 5, 2018. Later, modifications were made through another notification, S.O. 5259(E), published in the Gazette of India on October 12, 2018.

Further changes were made for solar photovoltaic (SPV) inverters, particularly for those with a capacity of more than 100 kW. The self-certification requirement for these inverters, which were listed under items 4 and 5 of the order, was extended until December 31, 2024, or until further orders, whichever comes earlier. This extension was notified through S.O. 5475(E) in the Gazette of India on December 28, 2023.

Considering the limited availability of test facilities and to ensure manufacturers have enough time for compliance, the government has further extended the implementation of the Quality Control Order (QCO), 2017 for SPV inverters above 100 kW. The new deadline is now December 31, 2025, or until further orders, based on self-certification. However, manufacturers must possess valid IEC certificates matching Indian standards. For item 4, compliance with IS 16221(Part 2):2015/IEC 62109-2:2011 is required, while item 5 must adhere to IS 16169:2014/IEC 62116:2008. Additionally, test reports from accredited laboratories are necessary for smooth enforcement of the order.