BIS CRS Certification for Thin-Film PV Modules

BIS CRS Certification for Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) Modules (a-Si, CIGS & CdTe) | IS 14286 Series:2023 | BIS Consultancy

Introduction

Thin-film photovoltaic (PV) modules are an important category of solar technology used for electricity generation in utility-scale, commercial, industrial and other photovoltaic applications. Unlike conventional crystalline-silicon modules, thin-film modules use semiconductor layers deposited onto a substrate, with technologies including amorphous silicon (a-Si), cadmium telluride (CdTe), and CIGS.

For manufacturers and importers supplying these products in India, compliance with applicable Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) requirements is an important part of market entry.

The BIS framework for thin-film terrestrial photovoltaic modules is based on the IS 14286 series:2023 – Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) Modules – Design Qualification and Type Approval. BIS's official test-report format identifies separate special-requirement sections for crystalline silicon, thin-film CdTe, thin-film amorphous silicon and thin-film CIGS technologies.

The current BIS Scheme-II page identifies Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) Modules (a-Si, CIGS and CdTe) as a product category under the compulsory-registration framework.

What Is BIS CRS Certification for Thin-Film PV Modules?

BIS CRS certification/registration provides the applicable conformity route for notified products covered under the BIS Compulsory Registration Scheme.

For thin-film terrestrial PV modules, the applicable technical requirements are addressed through the IS 14286 series and the relevant technology-specific section.

The current 2023 series includes:

IS 14286 (Part 1):2023 – Terrestrial photovoltaic (PV) modules – Design qualification and type approval – Part 1: Test requirements
IS 14286 (Part 2):2023 – Test procedures
IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 1):2023 – Special requirements for crystalline silicon PV modules
IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 2):2023 – Special requirements for thin-film cadmium telluride (CdTe) based PV modules
IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 3):2023 – Special requirements for thin-film amorphous silicon based PV modules
IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 4):2023 – Special requirements for thin-film Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)₂ based PV modules

Therefore, the exact section applicable to a thin-film PV module depends on its photovoltaic technology.

Important Standard Clarification: a-Si, CIGS and CdTe

It is important to distinguish the individual sections of the IS 14286 series.

Thin-Film Cadmium Telluride (CdTe)

For CdTe-based thin-film modules, the applicable technology-specific standard is:

IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 2):2023

This is the standard specifically named for thin-film Cadmium Telluride (CdTe) based photovoltaic modules.

Thin-Film Amorphous Silicon (a-Si)

For amorphous-silicon thin-film modules, the applicable technology-specific section is:

IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 3):2023

BIS laboratory listings specifically identify this section as the standard for thin-film amorphous silicon based photovoltaic modules.

Thin-Film CIGS

For CIGS-based thin-film modules, the applicable section is:

IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 4):2023

BIS identifies this as the section for thin-film Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)₂ based photovoltaic modules.

This distinction is important when selecting a laboratory and preparing a BIS certification application.

What Are Thin-Film Photovoltaic Modules?

Thin-film PV modules are solar modules in which photovoltaic semiconductor material is deposited in thin layers over a suitable substrate.

Common thin-film technologies include:

Amorphous Silicon (a-Si)

Amorphous silicon uses a non-crystalline form of silicon as the photovoltaic semiconductor.

Cadmium Telluride (CdTe)

CdTe modules use cadmium telluride as the semiconductor material and are widely used in certain utility-scale and commercial PV applications.

CIGS

CIGS refers to copper indium gallium diselenide/sulfide-related thin-film photovoltaic technology. BIS's current standard terminology identifies the technology under Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)₂.

The certification requirements should be determined according to the actual technology used in the module.

Why Is BIS Certification Important for Thin-Film Solar Modules?

Thin-film PV modules are electrical products intended for long-term outdoor energy-generation applications. Their performance and safety can be affected by:

Temperature
Humidity
UV exposure
Mechanical loads
Moisture
Electrical insulation
Outdoor environmental conditions
Module degradation
Interconnection reliability
Junction-box construction
Termination strength

BIS testing under the applicable IS 14286 series helps assess the module against the prescribed design-qualification and type-approval requirements.

Scope of BIS Requirements for Thin-Film PV Modules

The BIS framework covers thin-film terrestrial photovoltaic modules using technologies including:

Amorphous silicon (a-Si)
Cadmium telluride (CdTe)
CIGS

The relevant technology-specific sections are included in the BIS 2023 test-report framework.

The exact testing programme depends on the module technology, construction and applicable standard requirements.

Testing Requirements for Thin-Film PV Modules

Testing is a major part of demonstrating compliance.

Current BIS LIMS listings show testing facilities for IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 2):2023, including laboratories offering testing specifically for thin-film CdTe PV modules.

Testing areas can include:

Major visual defects
Visual inspection
Maximum power determination
Insulation testing
Temperature coefficient measurement
Nominal module operating temperature
Performance at standard test conditions
Performance at NMOT
Performance at low irradiance
Outdoor exposure
Hot-spot endurance
UV preconditioning
Thermal cycling
Humidity-freeze
Damp heat
Robustness of terminations
Wet leakage current
Static mechanical load
Hail
Bypass diode testing
Stabilization
Cyclic/dynamic mechanical load
Potential-induced degradation
Bending test
Marking and documentation

The exact tests and applicability depend on the relevant section and module technology. Current BIS laboratory listings show many of these tests under the CdTe section.

Major Visual Defects and Visual Inspection

The module is visually inspected for defects that could affect its safety, construction or performance.

The evaluation can include aspects such as:

Cracks
Delamination
Surface defects
Cell/module construction
Encapsulation
Frame condition
Junction-box condition
Connections
Labels and markings

The applicable test procedure should be followed for the specific module technology.

Maximum Power Determination

Maximum power determination is an important performance evaluation for photovoltaic modules.

The module's electrical output characteristics are measured under the applicable test conditions to determine the relevant power parameters.

This provides important information regarding the declared performance of the module.

Insulation Test

Electrical insulation is evaluated to verify the module's ability to provide the required electrical separation.

This is particularly important because PV modules operate outdoors and may be exposed to moisture and other environmental conditions.

Temperature Coefficients

Photovoltaic module output can vary with temperature.

The applicable testing therefore includes measurement of temperature coefficients so that the module's electrical characteristics can be evaluated under temperature variations.

Performance at STC and NMOT

Testing can include evaluation of module performance at:

Standard Test Conditions (STC)
Nominal Module Operating Temperature (NMOT)

These evaluations help characterize the electrical output of the module under defined conditions.

Performance at Low Irradiance

Solar modules can experience conditions where the available solar irradiance is lower than standard test conditions.

The applicable test evaluates the module's performance under low-irradiance conditions.

Outdoor Exposure Testing

Outdoor exposure testing evaluates the ability of the module to withstand specified environmental exposure.

This can be important for modules intended for long-term outdoor installation.

Hot-Spot Endurance Test

Hot-spot conditions can occur when part of a photovoltaic module operates differently from the rest of the module.

The applicable test evaluates the module's ability to withstand specified hot-spot conditions without creating unacceptable safety or performance problems.

UV Preconditioning

Thin-film PV modules are exposed to sunlight for long periods.

UV preconditioning evaluates the module under specified ultraviolet exposure before subsequent testing.

Thermal Cycling

PV modules experience repeated heating and cooling during normal outdoor operation.

Thermal cycling testing evaluates the module's ability to withstand repeated temperature changes.

Humidity-Freeze Testing

Modules installed outdoors can experience both moisture and low-temperature conditions.

Humidity-freeze testing evaluates the module under specified humidity and freezing cycles.

Damp Heat Testing

Damp heat testing evaluates module durability under elevated temperature and humidity conditions.

This is an important environmental test for products designed for long-term outdoor operation.

Mechanical Load Testing

PV modules can experience wind, snow and other mechanical loads depending on the installation environment.

Applicable mechanical testing can include:

Static mechanical load
Cyclic/dynamic mechanical load

Current BIS LIMS listings specifically show static mechanical load and cyclic/dynamic mechanical load testing under the applicable thin-film module standards.

Hail Testing

PV modules installed outdoors may be exposed to hail impact.

The applicable hail test evaluates resistance to specified impact conditions.

Bypass Diode Testing

Where applicable, bypass-diode performance and thermal behaviour are evaluated as part of the module test programme.

Stabilization Testing

Stabilization testing is included in the applicable IS 14286 testing programme for relevant thin-film PV modules. Current BIS laboratory listings show stabilization as a separately priced test item.

Potential-Induced Degradation Testing

Potential-induced degradation (PID) can affect photovoltaic module performance under certain operating conditions.

Current BIS laboratory listings identify MQT 21 – Potential Induced Degradation Test as a testing item under IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 2):2023.

BIS Testing Cost for Thin-Film PV Modules

There is no single fixed laboratory testing cost for every thin-film PV module.

The cost can vary according to:

PV technology
Module construction
Applicable IS 14286 section
Laboratory
Test scope
Number of tests
Additional requirements
Testing exclusions
Representative module configuration

Current BIS LIMS listings provide examples for IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 2):2023. For example, listings currently show complete testing charges of approximately:

₹15.025 lakh at Bharat Test House
₹16 lakh at one listed laboratory
₹19.85 lakh at another laboratory
₹20 lakh at another laboratory
₹20.975 lakh at TUV Rheinland
₹23.845 lakh at UL India

These are laboratory charges excluding applicable taxes and should be treated as current examples rather than a fixed BIS fee.

The actual quotation should be obtained from the selected laboratory based on the exact module technology and testing scope.

Testing Cost for a-Si and CIGS Modules

The laboratory charges for a-Si and CIGS modules can differ from CdTe because they are covered under different technology-specific sections.

Current BIS LIMS records show:

IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 3):2023 for thin-film amorphous silicon modules
IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 4):2023 for thin-film CIGS modules

For example, current listings show testing charges around ₹15.025 lakh for certain a-Si/CIGS laboratory scopes, although the exact charge depends on the laboratory and test programme.

Therefore, manufacturers should request a technology-specific quotation rather than assuming the same testing charge for all thin-film PV technologies.

Documents Required for BIS Certification

The exact documents depend on the applicant and product, but manufacturers/importers should generally prepare:

Manufacturer name and address
Manufacturing-site details
Brand/trademark details
Product name
Model number
Module datasheet
Electrical specifications
Rated maximum power
Open-circuit voltage
Short-circuit current
Maximum power voltage
Maximum power current
Module dimensions
Weight
Cell technology
Module construction details
Bill of materials
Encapsulation details
Glass/substrate details
Junction-box details
Cable specifications
Connector details
Circuit diagram
Electrical layout
Product photographs
Installation instructions
User documentation
Label/marking artwork
Existing test reports, where applicable
Manufacturer authorization documents, where applicable
BIS application documents
Undertakings/declarations as applicable

Technical Information Needed Before Testing

Before sending a thin-film PV module for laboratory testing, the following information should be reviewed carefully:

PV technology
Module construction
Rated power
Maximum system voltage
Open-circuit voltage
Short-circuit current
Operating voltage
Operating current
Temperature coefficients
Dimensions
Weight
Substrate type
Encapsulation system
Junction box
Connectors
Cable specifications
Bypass-diode arrangement
Mounting configuration
Intended outdoor application
Manufacturing process
Model/variant details

Correct technical information is particularly important because the applicable IS 14286 section depends on the photovoltaic technology.

BIS Certification Process for Thin-Film PV Modules

Step 1: Identify the PV Technology

First, determine whether the module uses:

a-Si
CdTe
CIGS

This determines the relevant technology-specific section of IS 14286:2023.

Step 2: Determine the Applicable Standard

The appropriate standard section is identified:

CdTe → IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 2):2023
a-Si → IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 3):2023
CIGS → IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 4):2023

The common IS 14286 framework and applicable test procedures are then considered.

Step 3: Technical Document Review

The module datasheet, construction, electrical ratings, drawings, components and manufacturing details are reviewed.

Step 4: Laboratory Selection

A suitable BIS-recognized laboratory with the required scope is selected.

Step 5: Sample Submission

Representative module samples are submitted according to the laboratory's requirements.

Step 6: Testing

The laboratory conducts the applicable design qualification and type-approval tests.

Step 7: Test Report

The laboratory prepares the relevant test report using the applicable BIS test-report format.

Step 8: BIS Application

The required documents and test report are submitted through the applicable BIS certification/registration process.

Step 9: BIS Scrutiny

BIS examines the application and supporting documentation.

Step 10: Clarification and Compliance

If BIS requires clarification or additional information, the applicant responds with the necessary documents or explanations.

Step 11: Registration/Approval

After successful completion of the applicable requirements, the relevant BIS registration/certification is granted.

BIS Test Report Format for IS 14286 Series:2023

BIS has published an official IS 14286 Series:2023 test-report format.

The format provides options for:

IS 14286 (Part 1):2023
IS 14286 (Part 2):2023
IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 1):2023
IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 2):2023
IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 3):2023
IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 4):2023

This confirms that the 2023 BIS framework provides separate technology-specific testing requirements for crystalline silicon and the different thin-film technologies.

BIS Certification for Imported Thin-Film PV Modules

Foreign manufacturers supplying thin-film solar modules to India should also evaluate the applicable BIS requirements.

The certification process can involve coordination among:

Foreign manufacturer
Indian representative/importer where applicable
BIS-recognized laboratory
BIS
Certification consultant

The following details should remain consistent:

Manufacturer name
Manufacturing address
Brand
Model number
Electrical ratings
Product label
Test sample
Test report
BIS application

Any significant mismatch can result in clarification or delay.

Model and Variant Assessment

Thin-film manufacturers may produce multiple modules with different:

Rated power
Dimensions
Electrical ratings
Substrate
Cell configuration
Junction boxes
Connectors
Encapsulation
Frame design

Before testing, the manufacturer should determine which models can be represented together under the applicable BIS requirements and which may require separate consideration.

A proper model-family assessment can help prevent unnecessary testing and documentation problems.

Product Marking and Label Requirements

The product label should contain the applicable identification and technical information required under the relevant BIS requirements.

Depending on the applicable requirements, product information can include:

Manufacturer name
Model number
Rated maximum power
Voltage
Current
Serial number
Electrical ratings
Applicable warnings
Product identification
BIS marking/registration information as applicable

The exact marking requirements should be confirmed before final production labeling.

Common Reasons for Delay in Thin-Film PV Certification

Manufacturers can face delays because of issues such as:

Incorrect technology classification
Selecting the wrong IS 14286 section
Incomplete technical documentation
Differences between test sample and production model
Incorrect electrical ratings
Incomplete bill of materials
Missing module construction details
Incomplete junction-box information
Inconsistent model numbers
Incorrect product labeling
Incomplete test information
Laboratory scope limitations
Multiple model variations without proper assessment
Failure to respond to BIS queries

A technical review before sample submission can help identify these issues.

Role of a BIS Certification Consultant for Thin-Film PV Modules

A professional BIS consultant can assist with:

Product classification
Identification of applicable IS 14286 section
Technical document review
Laboratory selection
Testing coordination
Sample submission support
Test report review
BIS application preparation
Documentation support
BIS query/clarification support
Model-family assessment
Registration follow-up

This can be particularly useful for manufacturers dealing with multiple PV technologies or several module variants.

Why Choose Qualitance India for BIS Consultancy?

Qualitance India provides BIS certification consultancy services for manufacturers and importers of solar, electrical, electronic and other regulated products.

For thin-film photovoltaic modules, our support can include:

BIS CRS certification consultancy
Product classification
IS 14286 standard/section verification
Technical document review
Laboratory coordination
Sample testing coordination
Test report review
BIS application assistance
Clarification support
Registration follow-up
Compliance guidance

Our team can help manufacturers organize the certification process according to their specific PV technology and product configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 2):2023?

It is the technology-specific section of IS 14286:2023 covering special requirements for testing of thin-film Cadmium Telluride (CdTe) based photovoltaic modules.

2. Does IS 14286 Part 1 Section 2 cover all thin-film PV technologies?

No. Section 2 specifically covers CdTe. BIS separately identifies Section 3 for thin-film amorphous silicon and Section 4 for thin-film CIGS.

3. Which standard applies to a-Si PV modules?

Thin-film amorphous silicon PV modules are covered by IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 3):2023.

4. Which standard applies to CIGS PV modules?

Thin-film CIGS modules are covered by IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 4):2023.

5. Which standard applies to CdTe PV modules?

CdTe-based thin-film modules are covered by IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 2):2023.

6. Are thin-film PV modules covered under BIS compulsory certification?

Yes. BIS's Scheme-II page identifies Thin-Film Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) Modules covering a-Si, CIGS and CdTe under the applicable compulsory-registration framework.

7. Is testing required for BIS certification?

Testing is an essential part of demonstrating conformity with the applicable requirements.

8. How much does thin-film PV module testing cost?

The cost varies by technology, laboratory and test scope. Current BIS LIMS examples for the CdTe section range from approximately ₹15 lakh to over ₹23 lakh excluding taxes.

9. Is the testing cost the same for a-Si, CIGS and CdTe?

Not necessarily. Each technology has its own technology-specific section and laboratory scope, so the applicable testing quotation can differ.

10. Does module power affect the certification process?

Module electrical characteristics and construction form part of the technical assessment. The exact impact depends on the applicable requirements and model configuration.

11. What tests are performed on thin-film PV modules?

Testing can include visual inspection, maximum power, insulation, temperature coefficients, STC/NMOT performance, low irradiance, outdoor exposure, thermal cycling, damp heat, humidity-freeze, mechanical load, hail, stabilization and other applicable tests.

12. Is potential-induced degradation testing included?

Current BIS LIMS listings include Potential Induced Degradation Test (MQT 21) for the applicable thin-film module testing scope.

13. Is hail testing required?

Hail testing is included among the tests listed for applicable IS 14286 thin-film PV module testing.

14. Is thermal cycling testing required?

Thermal cycling is included in the applicable test programme for the relevant thin-film PV module standard.

15. Can multiple models be covered under one certification?

This depends on the technical similarity of the models and the applicable BIS grouping requirements. The model family should be reviewed before testing.

16. Can an imported thin-film solar module obtain BIS certification?

Yes, subject to the applicable BIS requirements and documentation for the foreign manufacturer/importer structure.

17. What documents are needed for BIS certification?

Common documents include manufacturer details, product datasheets, electrical specifications, construction details, drawings, photographs, component information, test reports and application documents.

18. Does the manufacturing location matter?

The manufacturing unit and its address should be correctly identified in the application and supporting documentation.

19. Can Qualitance India help with a-Si, CIGS and CdTe modules?

Yes. Qualitance India provides BIS certification consultancy and testing/application support for manufacturers and importers of photovoltaic products.

20. How can I start BIS certification for a thin-film PV module?

You can start by providing the module datasheet, technology type, model numbers, electrical ratings, construction details, manufacturer information and product photographs. These details can be reviewed to identify the appropriate IS 14286 section and testing route.

Get BIS CRS Certification Consultancy for Thin-Film PV Modules

If you manufacture or import a-Si, CIGS or CdTe thin-film terrestrial photovoltaic modules for the Indian market, Qualitance India can assist with the applicable BIS certification process.

Our consultancy support includes product classification, applicable-standard verification, technical documentation, laboratory coordination, testing support, BIS application assistance and registration follow-up.

Qualitance India – BIS Certification Consultancy

Phone: +91-9310-615-170 Email: info@qualitanceindia.com Website: https://qualitanceindia.com/

Contact Qualitance India to discuss your thin-film PV module, applicable IS 14286 section, testing requirements and BIS certification process.

Conclusion

BIS compliance is an important requirement for manufacturers and importers of thin-film terrestrial photovoltaic modules supplied in India. The current IS 14286:2023 framework provides technology-specific requirements for different PV technologies.

For CdTe, the applicable section is IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 2):2023; for thin-film amorphous silicon, it is IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 3):2023; and for CIGS, it is IS 14286 (Part 1/Sec 4):2023. BIS's official test-report format and current laboratory listings confirm these separate technology-specific requirements.

Manufacturers can prepare for the BIS process by correctly identifying their PV technology, selecting the applicable standard section, preparing technical documentation, completing laboratory testing and submitting the required application and compliance documents.

With appropriate technical and certification support, manufacturers and importers can organize the BIS certification process for their thin-film photovoltaic modules and address the applicable Indian conformity requirements.