On October 8, 2024, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy issued the Solar Thermal Systems, Devices, and Components (Quality Control) Order, 2024. This order is designed to ensure that All Glass Evacuated Tubes Solar Water Heating System produced, imported, or sold in India meet strict quality standards, promoting safety and regulatory compliance. 

If you are involved in the production, sale, or import of All Glass Evacuated Tubes Solar Water Heating System, this order will have a direct impact on your operations. The government has introduced this regulation in the public interest under the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Act, 2016, after consulting the BIS. 

Key Provisions of the Solar Thermal Systems, Devices, and Components (Quality Control) Order, 2024 

1. Title and Implementation Timeline 

This order is officially titled the Solar Thermal Systems, Devices, and Components (Quality Control) Order, 2024. It will take effect 180 days after its publication in the Official Gazette, giving manufacturers and stakeholders time to comply. 

   • For all enterprises, compliance is required by April 2025. 

2. Mandatory BIS Certification 

All Glass Evacuated Tubes Solar Water Heating System covered under this order must conform to the relevant Indian Standard IS 16544: 2016 listed in the Schedule attached to the order. 

   • Products must bear the BIS Standard Mark (ISI Mark) to certify compliance with the required quality and safety standards. 

   • Manufacturers must obtain a BIS license to use the ISI Mark on their products. 

   • This rule does not apply to products meant solely for export. 

3. Exemptions 

This order does not apply to products that are solely manufactured for export purposes. Additionally, goods and articles meant for sub-assemblies of exported items are also exempt from the requirement of BIS certification.

4. BIS as Certifying and Enforcement Authority 

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is designated as the certifying and enforcement authority for this order. BIS will ensure that all Glass Evacuated Tubes Solar Water Heating System meet the prescribed standards and bear the Standard Mark. 

   • BIS, in collaboration with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, will conduct market surveillance to enforce compliance with this order. 

5. Penalties for Non-Compliance 

Any person who fails to comply with the provisions of this order will face penalties as outlined under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016. This regulation aims to maintain the high quality of Glass Evacuated Tubes Solar Water Heating System, ensuring their safety and reliability in the Indian market. 

This order marks a significant step in regulating the quality of solar thermal systems and components in India, ensuring that all products adhere to rigorous quality control measures for enhanced public safety. 

Stay compliant and prepare your business for these important regulatory changes to continue operating within the guidelines of the industry!

BIS Certification for All Glass Evacuated Tubes Solar Water Heating System IS 16544: 2016