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MNRE Extends Self-Certification Deadline for Solar PV Inverters Above 100 kW

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has extended the self-certification for solar photovoltaic (PV) inverters of capacities greater than 100 kW until December 31, 2025. This extension allows the continued enforcement of the Quality Control Order (QCO) 2017 for such inverters, providing more time for manufacturers to comply with the mandatory certification requirements.

The decision comes in response to the limited availability of testing facilities, and manufacturers are expected to have valid IEC certificates and test reports from accredited labs to meet the order's requirements. Initially, the QCO for solar PV inverters was scheduled to take effect on September 5, 2018, with the implementation timeline later modified to allow more time for compliance.

The self-certification arrangement, which has been in place for larger inverters since 2018, was extended once again in December 2023, initially valid until December 31, 2024. This new extension provides a further year, enabling manufacturers to continue adhering to the self-certification mechanism until further notice.

The MNRE’s recent order highlights the necessity of obtaining the relevant IEC certificates, including those for IS 16221 (Part 2): 2015/IEC 62109-2:2011 and IS 16169:2014/IEC 62116:2008, which are essential for the smooth implementation of the Quality Control Order. With this extension, manufacturers of solar PV inverters above 100 kW are expected to ensure that their products meet the required international standards and undergo testing by accredited laboratories for compliance.

The move is seen as a strategic response to challenges faced by the solar PV industry in scaling up testing capacity while maintaining quality control across components. As the Indian solar market continues to grow, this extension offers a critical window for companies to ensure they meet regulatory standards, supporting the broader goal of ensuring reliable and high-quality solar energy systems across the country.