INTRODUCTION
In today’s power-driven economy, energy meters play a vital role in measuring, monitoring, and billing electricity consumption across homes, industries, and utility grids. These devices ensure transparency and accountability in energy usage, which is critical for both suppliers and consumers. Given their importance, accuracy, reliability, and safety of energy meters are non-negotiable.
To uphold uniform quality and performance, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) mandates certification of energy meters under relevant Indian Standards. Depending on the type and application, energy meters are categorized and certified under:
IS 13010 for AC induction watt-hour meters (Class 0.5, 1 and 2),
IS 13779 for AC static watt-hour meters (Class 1 and 2),
IS 14697 for static transformer-operated watt-hour and VAR -hour meters (Class 0.2S and 0.5S).
With evolving technology and regulatory frameworks, manufacturers often turn to trusted experts like Omega QMS Pvt. Ltd. for streamlined BIS certification. Let’s explore these standards and how Omega QMS simplifies compliance.
OVERVIEW OF KEY INDIAN STANDARDS FOR ENERGY METERS
🔹 IS 13010 – AC Watt-Hour Meters, Class 0.5, 1 and 2
This standard applies to electromechanical induction-type watt-hour meters used for measuring active energy in single or three-phase AC systems.
Applications: Traditional billing and monitoring in residential and small industrial installations.
Accuracy Classes: 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 (lower class = higher accuracy).
Design Requirements: Includes protective housing, anti-reverse mechanisms, proper terminal construction, and resistance to mechanical/electrical disturbances.
Testing Scope: Type, routine, and acceptance tests are covered, including torque, insulation, and temperature variation.
It is being gradually phased out in favour of static meters.
🔹 IS 13779 – AC Static Watt-Hour Meters, Class 1 and 2
This standard covers solid-state (electronic) meters for measuring active energy in AC systems.
Scope: Single-phase and three-phase static meters, both indoor and outdoor.
Accuracy Classes: Class 1 and Class 2, suited for general and domestic metering.
Key Features:
Static measuring elements.
Non-volatile memory (NVM) and digital displays.
Multi-rate and bi-directional energy registration.
Testing: Includes electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), thermal behaviour, mechanical strength, and insulation properties.
It is the most widely adopted standard for general-purpose electronic energy meters.
🔹 IS 14697 – Static Transformer-Operated Watt-Hour and VAR-Hour Meters (Class 0.2S & 0.5S)
This standard is applicable to transformer-operated meters, typically used in high-precision industrial and utility metering.
Measurement Classes: Active Energy: 0.2S and 0.5S
Reactive Energy: 0.2S, 0.5S, and 1S
Special Features:
Designed for use with current transformers (CTs).
Multi-rate tariff support and data storage.
Enhanced EMI/EMC tolerance and thermal resistance.
Application Areas: Used by DISCOMs and commercial establishments for high-load or HT (High Tension) connections.
Testing: Covers comprehensive type and routine testing, including response to harmonics and temperature cycles.
The ‘S’ class ensures precise operation with designated ‘S’ class CTs for maximum accuracy.
QUALITY CONTROL ORDER (QCO), 2003 – REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
Issued via S.O. 189 (E) on February 17, 2003, under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 1986, the Quality Control Order, 2003 mandates that all above mentioned energy meters manufactured, stored for sale, sold, or distributed in India must:
- Conform to the specified Indian Standards (IS)
- Bear the Standard Mark (ISI Mark) from BIS
BIS CERTIFICATION PROCESS FOR ENERGY METERS
The BIS certification process ensures every energy meter type conforms to its respective standard. This follows the conformity assessment scheme under the BIS Act, 2016.
Key Steps:
Application Submission: The manufacturer submits detailed product and factory
information.
Product Testing: Samples are drawn and tested in BIS-approved labs.
Factory Audit: BIS inspectors verify quality control systems, traceability, and test facilities.
Grant of License: If requirements are met, BIS grants the license to use the ISI mark.
Surveillance and Renewal: Regular inspections and sample testing ensure continued compliance.
HOW OMEGA QMS PVT. LTD. SUPPORTS MANUFACTURERS
Omega QMS Pvt. Ltd. is a leading consultancy that guides manufacturers through every stage of BIS certification for energy meters. With deep expertise in regulatory compliance and quality management systems, Omega QMS ensures a smooth, efficient, and successful certification journey.
Services Offered:
Initial Gap Assessment: Review of current manufacturing and quality practices vs. BIS requirements
Technical Documentation: Complete preparation of required forms, manuals, and compliance reports
Mock Factory Audits: Prepares the factory for BIS inspections with trial runs and corrective advice
Liaison with BIS: Manages the entire communication, application, and scheduling process with BIS
Post-Certification Support: Assists with surveillance audits, renewals, and quality system updates
With Omega QMS as a partner, manufacturers can focus on production while outsourcing the complexities of certification to a capable team.
CONCLUSION AND FINAL THOUGHTS
Accurate energy metering is foundational to power distribution, billing, and energy efficiency. With increasing demand for smart, reliable, and high-precision meters, manufacturers must ensure that their products meet the stringent benchmarks laid out by BIS through IS 13010, IS 13779, and IS 14697.
By partnering with Omega QMS Pvt. Ltd., manufacturers gain a reliable ally in navigating the BIS certification ecosystem. Their guidance ensures compliance with the latest standards, reduces certification timelines, and helps brands earn customer trust through certified quality.
OMEGA QMS PVT. LTD.
908-909, Hemkunt House, Rajendra Place, New Delhi-110008,
India Phone: 011-41413939(100 lines), Email: info@globalomega.com,
sales@globalomega.com, mktg@globalomega.com