The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY) has issued an order clarifying the measurement and verification of rated capacity for sealed secondary lithium cells and batteries covered under IS 16046 (Part 2):2018, which is mandated under India’s Compulsory Registration Order (CRO).
This clarification has been issued following reports of misdeclaration of rated capacity in registered lithium cell and battery products, raising concerns around consumer protection and compliance integrity.
Background
Under IS 16046 (Part 2):2018, manufacturers are required to declare the rated capacity of lithium cells and batteries as part of the registration process.
However, MEITY has observed multiple instances where the declared rated capacity did not accurately reflect the actual performance of the product.
To address this issue and safeguard consumer interests, MEITY has now specified a uniform and verifiable test method for determining rated capacity.
New Requirement for Rated Capacity Measurement
As per the order, the rated capacity of sealed secondary lithium cells and batteries must now be:
Measured and verified using the test method specified in Clause 7.3.1 of IS 16047 (Part 3)
Reported for compliance under IS 16046 (Part 2)
This requirement standardises how rated capacity is determined, ensuring consistency between declared values and tested performance.
Implementation Timeline
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) will issue revised test report formats and implementation guidelines to support this requirement.
The clarified measurement and reporting requirements will take effect from:
1 May 2027 for:
New registrations
Inclusions
Renewals
Existing registrations will remain valid until their expiry, provided that surveillance samples comply with the specified rated capacity limits.
What This Means for Manufacturers
Manufacturers of lithium cells and batteries covered under IS 16046 (Part 2) should review their declared rated capacity values and ensure future testing aligns with Clause 7.3.1 of IS 16047 (Part 3). Early preparation will help ensure smooth compliance once the revised reporting formats and guidelines are implemented. To read the official notification, access below:
At C-PRAV, we continue to track regulatory developments under India’s Compulsory Registration framework and keep manufacturers informed of evolving compliance and testing requirements for lithium cells and batteries.