- IS 17293 defines the technical specifications and safety requirements for electric cables to be used in solar power systems up to 1500 V DC.
- It has high resistance to UV, heat, ozone, and weathering.
- BIS Certification for Photovoltaic have to undergo tests for electricity, mechanical, and fire resistance in BIS-recognized labs.
- They have to ensure quality control, marking, and traceability as described in the BIS ISI Scheme.
- Certified PV cables bear the ISI Mark, which indicates compliance with Indian safety and performance standards.
Introduction
The BIS Certification for Photovoltaic, having standard IS 17293, is a compulsion for quality assurance and has been made necessary by the Bureau of Indian Standards for the safety, durability, and quality of the cable used in the power plant of a photovoltaic (solar) system. The cable is a critical component in the transmission of power generated from a solar panel, which in many cases might be in severe outdoor conditions like high temperature, UV, moisture, and mechanical forces. The Indian Standard IS 17293 specifies requirements for the construction, insulation, electrical, and environmental resistance of the PV cable. The use of this standard ensures that the cable conforms to the safety requirements of India and can be used for a long time in a solar system.
What is IS 17293?
IS 17293 is an Indian Standard, published by the Bureau of Indian Standards, BIS, and defines the requirements of electric cables for the purpose of BIS Certification for Photovoltaic. This Indian Standard applies to the PV cables with a DC working voltage of up to 1500V.”This standard encompasses the following characteristics: construction, insulation, sheathing, electrical performance, mechanical strength, and resistance to heat, UV radiation, ozone, and weathering,” the website states. “The scope of IS 17293 is to make sure that the solar PV cables are safe, long-lasting, and efficient even in extreme climatic conditions,”
Key Points:
- IS : 17293 This is an Indian Standard and is applicable in the handling of electric cables with regards to photovoltaic/solar power.
- This applies for DC 1500V or lower rated PV cables.
- There are requirements for insulation, outer shielding, and conductors.
- It guards against the influences of UV rays, heat, and wet conditions.
- If the solar PV power cables are manufactured as per IS 17293 standards, then the cables will be safe and reliable.
Why is BIS Certification Mandatory
BIS Certification is required to ensure that PV Cables used in Solar Power Systems are as per IS 17293 norms of safety and quality. These cables are exposed to extreme environmental conditions and handle higher DC Voltages, making them of utmost significance for fire safety and reliability. BIS Certification for Photovoltaic makes it imperative to ensure that only qualified and reliable cables meeting strict quality standards are marketed in the Indian market pertaining to electrical safety and quality norms.
Key Reasons:
- Verifies the PV cables as per the requirements of IS 17293.
- Prevents the usage of poor quality or unsafe cables while using solar power.
- Reduces the possibility of electricity malfunctioning, fires, and power wastage.
- The cables should be made of durable and tested materials at BIS-approved labs.
- Improves trust and cooperation between manufacturing companies, suppliers, and solar project developers.
Importance and Benefits of BIS Certification for Photovoltaic
| Importance | Benefits |
| IS 17293 ensures that the designed cable for solar energy is capable of withstanding a high DC voltage, which is a maximum of 1500V. | Improves safety by reducing electrical and fire hazards in solar systems. |
| It contains specific requirements for insulation, the sheath, and the conductor. | Provides long service life and reliability to the PV cables. |
| Cables need to be protected against many environmental and physical conditions such as sunlight, heat, and water. | Assists in establishing market confidence and regulatory acceptance. |
| All certification requires BIS-approved testing. | It prevents the use of cheap and non-standard cables. |
| ISI stamps and signs on certified cables will facilitate tracing of the cables. | Enables the efficient and stable operation of solar energy systems. |
Step-by-Step Process of BIS Certification
Step1:Documentation
- Collect required technical documents
- Prepare product specifications
- Gather company registration details
- Ensure documents follow BIS format
Step2:Product Testing
- Send samples to a BIS-approved lab
- Conduct safety and quality tests
- Receive test reports
- Confirm compliance with BIS standards
Step3:Application Submission
- Fill out the BIS application form
- Upload all required documents
- Attach valid test reports
- Pay the necessary BIS fees
Step4:Scrutiny and Inspection
- BIS reviews submitted documents
- Authority verifies test results
- Factory/product inspection may occur
- Clarifications requested if needed
Step5:Grant of License
- BIS approves the application
- License number is issued
- Product can carry BIS mark
- Renewal required before expiry
Documents Required for BIS Certification for Photovoltaic
| Category | Documents Required |
| Business Documents | Business license/registration, ISO certificate, organizational details |
| Manufacturer Details | Factory layout, process flow chart, machinery list, production details |
| Product Documents | Product specifications, component list, user manual, model details |
| Testing Documents | Test report from BIS-recognized lab, sample details, test request form |
| Legal & Compliance | Authorization letter, brand ownership proof, trademark certificate (if any) |
| Import/Foreign Manufacturer (If applicable) | AIR (Authorized Indian Representative) details, contract agreement, overseas manufacturer documents |
Timelines, Costs, Validity & Renewal
- Timelines: Usually from 20 to 30 days, with only 7-15 days for the testing.
- Costs: The cost of the government and the test varies depending on the product. There can be some additional charges though.
- Validity: The validity period is 2 years in most situations.
- Renewal: The renewal is done before the expiration; there should be updated documents/tests; the renewal
Why Choose Diligence Certifications
Diligence Certifications – Trusted Consultancy for Compliance and Regulations for BIS Certification of PV Cables on IS 17293.Diligence Certifications is a reliable consultancy for compliance and regulatory requirements for the complete support of the BIS Certification of PV Cables on IS 17293. Being greatly experienced in Indian standards and the certification process of the standards of the country, the consultancy provides valuable help to the manufacturers for the easy and successful completion of the documentation process, the product testings, the factory audits, and the approval for the BIS standards of the country.
Conclusion
BIS Certification for Photovoltaic as per IS 17293 is one of the most crucial aspects in this respect, as it helps in the galvanization of the solar power sector of India. By following this Indian standard, the manufacturers and sellers of these products are assured that their products will be able to withstand stern environmental and electrical conditions and will be able to perform their duties as desired in the absence of any risks like fire and electric shock.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is IS 17293?
It is an Indian standard for Solar Photovoltaic Cables with a DC working voltage up to 1500V.
Is BIS Certification Mandatory for PV Cables?
Yes, PV cables will be for sale in India, and for that, BIS certification is mandatory.
ISI on the PV wire stands for Indian Standard.
It makes sure that the cable complies with the IS17293 regarding the safety and quality of the cable.
Which body issues BIS Certification?
The certification is issued by the Bureau of Indian standards.
One standard for the whole world is necessitated to tackle:
It is applicable for the PV cables with the rating of upto 1500 volts DC
Do PV cables require lab testing?
Yes, they need to be tested in BIS-certified labs.
What are the conditions the PV cables have to withstand?
Its samples had to withstand temperature, UV rays, water, ozone, and weathering.
What is the term of the BIS license?
Normally, it last for a period of two years.
Foreign companies can apply through an "Authorized Indian Representative.
Yes, Foreign companies can apply through an "Authorized Indian Representative.
Why is BIS Certification important?
This guarantees safe and durable PV cables for use in a solar power installation.
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