The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has officially released Amendment No. 1 to IS 16270:2023, which specifies the general requirements and test methods for secondary cells and batteries used in solar photovoltaic (PV) applications. This update is a crucial step in aligning Indian standards with evolving technology requirements and enhancing the safety, reliability, and performance of solar PV energy storage systems. The amendment must be fully implemented by 8 December 2025.
Solar PV systems, particularly off-grid installations, rely heavily on secondary batteries for energy storage. With the increasing adoption of renewable energy solutions in India, standardizing battery performance and safety parameters is critical to protecting both consumers and equipment.
Expanded Scope and Applicability
The amendment broadens the scope of the standard. Previously, IS 16270:2023 applied to select battery types; the update now covers all types of secondary cells and batteries used in solar PV off-grid applications, including:
Lead-acid batteries
Lithium-ion batteries
Nickel-based chemistries
Emerging battery chemistries
This ensures uniform testing and compliance requirements across a wide variety of battery technologies, supporting safer and more reliable solar installations.
Key Technical Changes
Typographical Corrections
Minor corrections have been made in Clause 8.4.3.2 (Paragraphs 2 & 3). While these are typographical, accurate documentation is essential to avoid ambiguity during testing or certification processes.
Lithium Battery Discharge Testing
For lithium-based batteries, the amendment now specifies that discharge tests must be conducted at 0.2 It current, which aligns with internationally accepted testing practices. This adjustment ensures consistent measurement of capacity, efficiency, and cycle performance, reducing risks of over-discharge or misrepresentation of battery capabilities.
Tests in Table 6
The tests listed in Table 6 of the standard are now explicitly applicable for cells as per the Indian standard. These tests include:
Capacity verification
Cycle life tests
Short-circuit tests
Temperature and environmental endurance
Ensuring these tests are mandatory for all cells enhances the robustness and reliability of solar PV energy storage systems in field conditions.
Implementation Guidelines for Compliance
BIS has provided clear instructions for both existing licensees and new applicants:
Existing Licensees: Must comply by 8 December 2025 by submitting a complete test report for all lead models and providing an undertaking covering all models under the licence. This ensures that all currently marketed products meet the updated technical and safety requirements.
New Applications (Prior to 8 Dec 2025): May be processed with or without the amendment, provided a declaration is submitted. After 8 December 2025, new licences will only be granted if the applicant demonstrates full compliance with Amendment No. 1.
Scope Changes: Any changes to the product scope must follow the same compliance provisions. Processing of non-amended applications will be permitted only up to 8 December 2025 or until full implementation.
Significance of the Amendment
This amendment addresses critical aspects of battery safety and performance in solar PV applications:
Enhanced Safety: By standardizing discharge currents and making critical tests mandatory, the risk of battery failure or fire incidents is significantly reduced.
Performance Standardization: Ensures consistent performance measurement across different battery chemistries, enabling better system design and reliability.
Industry Alignment: Brings Indian solar PV battery standards closer to international norms, facilitating global competitiveness for Indian manufacturers.
Next Steps for Stakeholders
All manufacturers, importers, and system integrators working with solar PV batteries should:
Review the full text of Amendment No. 1 to IS 16270:2023.
Assess existing battery models for compliance with the updated requirements.
Conduct necessary tests for lead and lithium batteries as specified.
Submit updated reports and declarations to BIS prior to the deadline.
This amendment reinforces BIS’s commitment to safe, reliable, and standardized renewable energy storage solutions. Staying ahead of compliance not only ensures legal adherence but also strengthens brand credibility and consumer trust in solar PV systems.
For the original BIS notification, please click here.
For any queries or technical assistance, contact us at india@c-prav.com.
