In a strategic policy shift to enhance consumer protection and elevate product standards, the Government of India has officially mandated BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) certification for all solar water heaters—both domestic and imported.
This regulation, introduced under the Solar Thermal Systems, Devices and Components (Quality Control) Order, 2024, represents a major initiative to standardize the solar thermal market and ensure that only reliable, high-performance systems are available to Indian consumers.
Industry Growth Meets Regulatory Reform
India’s solar water heating sector is witnessing robust expansion, with the market estimated at approximately ₹700 crore and growing annually at a rate of 10–15%. However, this growth has also led to an increase in inferior and unregulated products, which can result in poor performance and safety hazards.
The new BIS certification mandate seeks to counter these risks by making it compulsory for all solar water heaters to comply with defined Indian quality standards before entering the market.
Core Components of the New Regulation
- Compulsory BIS Certification
All types of solar water heating systems, including flat plate collectors, evacuated tube collectors, and associated components such as storage tanks, must be BIS certified to be sold in India. - Universal Compliance Requirement
The regulation applies to manufacturers, distributors, and importers across the industry. - Structured Regulatory Oversight
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), in collaboration with the Solar Thermal Federation of India, has set the relevant standards. BIS will oversee implementation through inspections and market checks. - Legal Enforcement under BIS Act, 2016
Non-compliance can attract penalties as stipulated in the BIS Act, highlighting the regulatory seriousness of the new mandate.
Implications for Industry Stakeholders
For consumers, this move promises access to more reliable and safer solar water heating solutions. It reduces the risk of encountering substandard systems while encouraging adoption of clean technologies.
For manufacturers and suppliers, this regulation demands adaptation. While the certification process may introduce operational challenges, it also offers an opportunity to stand out in a competitive market by aligning with high quality benchmarks. In the long run, companies that comply will benefit from increased customer trust and market legitimacy.
The regulation is also expected to encourage domestic production by curbing the inflow of low-grade imported products, thus fostering a more equitable business environment.
Aligning with Global Clean Energy Standards
With this quality control initiative, India joins a select group of countries enforcing rigorous standards in the solar thermal domain. This not only aligns with international best practices but also underscores India’s commitment to building a reliable and sustainable renewable energy infrastructure.
As the nation accelerates its transition to green energy, quality assurance at every level becomes critical. The BIS certification requirement is a definitive step toward ensuring India’s clean energy solutions are both effective and dependable.