MNRE Issues Draft Guidelines for Storage Battery Testing and Series Approval

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has issued draft guidelines for the series approval and testing of storage batteries under the Solar Systems, Devices and Component Goods Order 2025.

The draft aims to streamline the process for laboratories and manufacturers to test and approve storage batteries, including lead-acid, lithium-ion (both portable and industrial), and nickel-based chemistries, in accordance with IS 16270:2023. It defines a product family based on maximum configuration of components and sub-assemblies and provides a framework for representative sample selection, testing sequences, and quantitative sampling methods to ensure uniformity across all models in a series.

The guidelines cover material and construction standards for all battery chemistries. Lead-acid batteries must use high-quality containers such as hard rubber, polypropylene, or fibre-reinforced plastics and conform to IS 16270 requirements. Nickel-cadmium and nickel-metal hydride batteries require high-strength, alkali-resistant containers, while lithium-ion cells must feature flame-retardant, impact-resistant casings with high-quality internal components.

The draft also details procedures for battery submission, random sampling, charging protocols, marking requirements, and type testing for stationary and portable variants, including vented, valve-regulated, tubular VRLA, prismatic, and pouch formats. Manufacturers must provide specifications on dimensions, chemistry, separators, nominal voltage, rated capacity, and connectors to test laboratories.

Safety is emphasised across all battery types. The guidelines highlight potential risks such as fire, explosion, chemical hazards, and electric shock, and prescribe proper installation, storage, maintenance, and disposal practices. Manufacturers are required to provide comprehensive safety instructions, including handling procedures, voltage limits, insulation, isolators for parallel connections, and recommendations for protective equipment. Batteries should be stored on suitable surfaces, away from dampness, combustible materials, and heat sources, with adequate ventilation.

The guidelines also mandate adherence to type test results, representative model testing, and consistency in manufacturing processes to ensure compliance with BIS registration and reliable operation in solar applications.