Government Enforces Adoption of Standardized Solar DC Cables

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has notified a Quality Control Order (QCO) for Solar DC Cables, which are used for connecting solar panels and other components of photovoltaic systems. The QCO aims to ensure the safety, reliability and performance of these cables, which are exposed to harsh weather conditions and fire hazards.

Background

Solar DC Cables are electric cables that carry direct current (DC) electricity from solar panels to inverters, batteries or other devices. They are designed to withstand high temperatures, ultraviolet radiation, moisture, abrasion and mechanical stress. However, there is a lack of uniform standards and quality control for these cables in the Indian market, which can lead to poor installation, malfunctioning, fire accidents and reduced efficiency of solar systems.

According to a report by Aleph India, a leading certification agency, the Indian solar DC cable market size was estimated at Rs 1,200 crore in 2023 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15% till 2028. The growth is driven by the increasing demand for solar power generation in India, which has set a target of installing 450 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030.

To address these concerns and uphold the safety and reliability of these systems, regulatory authorities have mandated Solar DC Cables standards through QCOs. The QCOs specify the technical requirements, testing methods and certification procedures for these cables as per the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). The QCOs also prohibit the manufacture, storage and sale of non-BIS certified Solar DC Cables in the country.

Implementation

The QCO for Solar DC Cables was notified on 25th August, 2023 and will come into force from six months from the date of notification. The QCO covers electric cables for photovoltaic systems with rated voltages up to 1.5 kV DC. The QCO also includes fire survival cables, which are designed to sustain high temperatures for a defined minimum period of time under direct fire.

The QCO requires manufacturers, importers and sellers of Solar DC Cables to obtain a BIS license and mark their products with the BIS standard number and logo. The QCO also empowers BIS to conduct inspections, sampling and testing of Solar DC Cables at any stage of production or distribution. The violation of the QCO can attract a penalty of imprisonment up to two years or with fine of at least Rs 2 lakh for the first offence. In case of second and subsequent offences, the fine will increase to Rs 5 lakh minimum and extend up to ten times the value of goods or articles.

Impact

The QCO for Solar DC Cables is expected to have a positive impact on the quality, safety and performance of solar systems in India. It will also help in promoting the use of copper-based cables, which have higher conductivity, durability and resistance to corrosion than other materials. Copper-based cables can also reduce losses and increase efficiency of solar systems.

According to a study by the International Copper Association India (ICA India), copper-based solar DC cables can save up to 4% of energy losses compared to aluminium-based cables. This can translate into annual savings of Rs 2,400 crore for the Indian solar sector.

The QCO will also benefit the domestic manufacturers of Solar DC Cables, who will be able to compete with imported products on quality parameters. The QCO will also create a level playing field for all stakeholders in the solar sector and boost consumer confidence and satisfaction.

The QCO is part of the government’s initiative to establish a quality control regime for various industrial sectors under its domain. The DPIIT has also notified QCOs for other products such as cast iron products, steel tubes, pressure cookers, toys, etc. The QCOs are aligned with the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and aim to enhance the brand and value of ‘Made in India’ products.