MNRE Issues Draft Guidelines for Series Approval of Storage Batteries for Solar Systems

Introduction

As part of the engagement with the stakeholders on the draft Guidelines for Series Approval of Storage Batteries issued under tags “MNRE Office Memorandum dated 29th September 2025 Stakeholder Engagement”, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India has approached for the first set of feedback on these guidelines from its Standards and Quality Control Division.

With these draft guidelines, the Ministry seeks to finalize the required guidelines for the constituent batteries for Solar Systems, Devices, and Component Goods (Requirements for Compulsory Registration with BIS) Order 2025.

Explanation

The draft guidelines have been introduced to facilitate testing laboratories and manufacturers in forming series of storage battery products for approval and performance testing. The guidelines apply to lead-acid, lithium-ion (portable and industrial applications), and nickel-based batteries used in solar photovoltaic systems. They seek to ensure uniform testing procedures, product quality, and safety compliance across manufacturers.

1. Definition of Product Family

The guidelines define a product family as a group of batteries that share common design, construction, and essential components. All models within the family must have similar characteristics that ensure conformity with the relevant standards. This helps testing laboratories assess the overall compliance of a representative product from each family.

2. Sampling and Testing Procedures

As per IS 16270:2023, storage batteries will undergo a standardized testing sequence. Samples for testing are to be randomly selected from production batches and must have the same nominal voltage, rated capacity, and electrolyte composition.

Specific testing provisions are outlined for:

• Lead-Acid Batteries (both vented and valve-regulated types)
• Nickel-Cadmium and Nickel-Metal Hydride Batteries
• Lithium-Ion Batteries for portable and industrial applications

Each type of battery will be tested according to its chemical composition and capacity range. The guidelines also include detailed tables classifying series ranges and representative models, ensuring a structured approach to performance and endurance testing.

3. Manufacturer’s Obligations

Manufacturers are required to submit detailed information regarding:

• Material composition, container type, and sealing method
• Charging procedures and operational conditions (temperature and humidity)
• Labelling details such as manufacturer name, voltage, capacity, and date of manufacture

They must also provide a declaration confirming that all products within a series are manufactured using identical materials, processes, and quality systems.

4. Safety and Handling Requirements

The guidelines stress the importance of safe handling, installation, and disposal of batteries, noting the risks of chemical, electrical, and fire hazards. Manufacturers are expected to include safety instructions and maintenance procedures in technical manuals.

Recommendations include:

• Use of suitable lifting devices and protective gear
• Regular inspection of terminals and connections
• Compliance with safety data sheets for installation and maintenance
• Clear information on electric shock hazards and disposal procedures

Proper ventilation, restricted access to storage areas, and adherence to environmental safety norms are also emphasized.

Conclusion

The MNRE has issued draft guidelines concerning series approval on storage batteries. This is highly important information on the quality, reliability, and safety enhancements in India’s Solar battery storage. This also BIS, testing, and certification standardization across different sectors within the renewable energy industry.

When the draft guidelines are issued in final form, only certified and performance tested storage batteries will be included in solar photovoltaics systems. This is firm government assurance on safe and reliable renewable energy infrastructure, on quality control and the promotion of sustainable energy development.