Coal news and updates

MNRE issues draft guidelines for series testing of solar inverters

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has released draft guidelines for the series approval of solar photovoltaic (SPV) inverters for testing in laboratories. The guidelines aim to help test labs and manufacturers organize the approval process for different models of solar inverters under a common series, especially when changes in design or materials occur. These guidelines apply to SPV-based off-grid, grid-tied, and hybrid inverters. According to the document, a product family is defined based on the maximum configuration of components and sub-assemblies, where all models share the same essential hardware and firmware. All inverters under a family must have the same input/output voltage, frequency, number of output phases, PCB layout, insulation class, control algorithm, and cabinet design. Any changes in internal components, construction, or firmware that affect safety require retesting. Each product model must include a label containing essential details such as the manufacturer’s name, model number, input/output ratings, and protection rating. If fuse ratings are specified, markings must be placed near the fuse holder.