This order from the Indian government introduces updated rules to regulate the quality of solar systems, devices, and components. Here’s a breakdown of the main points:

1. Replacement of the 2017 Order: The “Solar Systems, Devices, and Components Goods Order, 2025” replaces the older 2017 version. The aim is to bring in stricter standards for solar products sold in India.
2. Certification and Standards: All solar products, like photovoltaic (solar) modules, storage batteries, and inverters, need to conform to the Indian Standards set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). This means that the products must meet quality requirements to ensure they are safe, efficient, and reliable. These products must also bear a ‘Standard Mark’ from BIS to show they have passed the required checks.
3. Efficiency Requirements: Solar panels must meet specific efficiency levels for energy conversion. For example:
   • Mono Crystalline Silicon Photovoltaic (PV) modules must have at least 18% efficiency of Standard Test Conditions.
   • Poly Crystalline Silicon PV modules must have at least 17% efficiency of Standard Test Conditions.
4. Regulatory Oversight: The BIS will be in charge of enforcing these rules. The Bureau will check the market to ensure that products meet these standards, and any violations could result in penalties.
5. Transition Period: Businesses selling solar products have 180 days (6 months) to comply with the new standards. This gives them time to adjust their operations to meet the new rules. Existing products that were licensed under the previous order will still be valid until their licenses expire. After that, the new order will apply for new registrations and renewals.
6. Impact on the Market: These rules ensure that the solar products sold in India are of high quality, meet performance expectations, and are safe for consumers. It will also help businesses align with international standards, making India’s solar market more reliable and trustworthy.

In short, this order aims to improve the quality of solar products, ensure they meet certain standards, and give manufacturers enough time to meet these requirements. It also introduces new penalties for companies that fail to comply.