New Delhi: The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), operating under the ministry of power has launched a Standards and Labeling (S&L) Program for Grid-Connected Solar Inverters, projecting an energy saving of 21.1 billion kWh and a reduction of 15.1 million tonnes in carbon dioxide emissions from 2024-25 to 2033-34. This initiative, announced by the Union power and new & renewable energy minister R. K. Singh, is set to empower consumers by enabling informed choices based on the cost-effectiveness and energy performance of solar inverters.
The program, which encompasses grid-connected solar inverters up to 100 kW without storage, commences in a voluntary phase running until December 31, 2025. Participation requires adherence to the BIS certification and the safety standard IS 16221-2:2015.
During the launch event, attended by key officials including Union power secretary Pankaj Agarwal and BEE Director General Abhay Bakre, Minister Singh underscored the broader benefits of the S&L Programs. “The S&L Program is an important tool in reducing carbon dioxide emissions. It benefits both the consumer and the system by saving money through the quantum of energy saved,” he stated.
The initiative follows the successful implementation of similar standards for solar panels and is part of India’s concerted efforts to meet its renewable energy targets. The government’s recent PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana has already provided a significant boost to rooftop solar programs, contributing to the reduction of transmission and distribution losses.
“The S&L Program for grid-connected solar inverters is set to revolutionize India’s renewable energy sector,” said Power secretary Pankaj Agarwal, emphasizing the initiative’s potential to guide investments in efficient and durable solar solutions.
BEE’s Director General Abhay Bakre, highlighted the program as a milestone in the pursuit of a greener future. “This marks a pivotal moment in our quest for sustainability in the solar sector, empowering consumers and encouraging manufacturers to offer high-quality products,” he remarked.
With the solar inverter market poised for significant growth, this new S&L Program is expected to make a substantial impact on India’s energy efficiency and sustainability goals.
