Representational image. Credit: Canva
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has declared an extension of the compliance deadline for the Quality Control Order (QCO) related to Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) inverters. The initial order, titled “Solar Photovoltaics, Systems, Devices and Components Goods (Requirements for Compulsory Registration) Order, 2017,” was issued on 5th September 2017, with modifications published on 12th October 2018.
The QCO, applicable to six specified products listed in the Schedule, originally came into force on 5th September 2018. Subsequently, self-certification for SPV inverters (items 4-5) was extended until 31st December 2023, or until further orders, as per a notification published in the Gazette of India on 28th July 2023 (S.O. 3386(E)).
Due to the limited availability of test facilities for larger capacities and to facilitate smoother compliance, the implementation of the QCO 2017 for SPV inverters (items 4-5) with a capacity exceeding 100 kW (>100 kW) has now been extended from 31st December 2023 to 31st December 2024, or until further orders. Manufacturers can continue self-certification, provided they possess valid IEC certificates corresponding to IS standards specified in the original order (IS 16221(Part 2):2015/IEC 62109-2:2011 for item No 4 and IS 16169:2014/IEC 62116:2008 for item No. 5) and test reports from accredited labs.
It is important to note that the QCO 2017 for SPV inverters with a capacity of up to 100 kW has been implemented with effect from 1st January 2024. This extension, announced by the MNRE, aims to provide manufacturers with additional time to ensure compliance with the specified quality standards, contributing to the overall efficiency and reliability of solar energy systems.
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