The Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC), under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India, has released an official clarification regarding the acceptance of EMI/EMC and Safety Test Reports for Smart Electricity Meters that comply with IS 16444 standards.
This clarification provides much-needed transparency for manufacturers, OEMs, and testing laboratories involved in the Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecom Equipment (MTCTE) process.
Purpose of the Clarification
Smart electricity meters are integral to India’s smart grid mission and must meet both BIS and TEC certification requirements. Previously, there was confusion over whether test reports from BIS-recognised labs would be accepted if they didn’t explicitly mention the communication module model or code used in the meter.
To eliminate this ambiguity, TEC issued a clarification outlining conditions for acceptance of such reports and ensuring a smoother certification process under MTCTE.
Key Highlights of TEC’s Clarification
For Smart Meters Tested or Submitted On or Before 12 June 2025
- TEC will accept EMI/EMC and Safety Test Reports issued by BIS-recognised laboratories, even if the communication module model or code is not specified in the report.
- The report must, however, mention the communication type (WAN/NAN) and frequency used during testing.
- Manufacturers must submit a self-declaration confirming the communication module model/code installed in the meter at the time of testing.
For Smart Meters Tested After 12 June 2025
- All test reports must clearly specify the communication module model or code used for EMI/EMC and Safety testing.
- This will ensure complete traceability and alignment between test results and product configurations submitted under MTCTE.
What It Means for Manufacturers
This clarification is a welcome step for meter manufacturers and importers, as it:
- Simplifies the acceptance process for test reports obtained before the new deadline.
- Prevents retesting and delays caused by missing communication module details.
- Ensures transparency and consistency in documentation during MTCTE certification.
- Helps stakeholders align future test reports with the updated requirements, ensuring full regulatory compliance.
Recommended Actions for Compliance
If your test reports were issued before 12 June 2025:
- Confirm that the report includes the module type (WAN/NAN) and its frequency.
- Attach a manufacturer’s self-declaration confirming the module model or code used.
- Prepare documentation for submission under MTCTE certification.
If your test reports will be issued after 12 June 2025:
- Ensure your testing laboratory explicitly mentions the model/code of the communication module in the report.
- Maintain internal records for all components used in production.
- Review reports for accuracy before submitting them to TEC.
Why This Update Matters
This clarification not only supports smoother certification but also promotes India’s vision for a standardised smart metering ecosystem.
By setting clear guidelines for test report acceptance, TEC aims to:
- Reduce uncertainty for testing labs and manufacturers.
- Improve efficiency in the MTCTE approval process.
- Strengthen confidence in smart electricity meter compliance and interoperability.
How Instacertify Can Help
If you are a manufacturer, OEM, or importer of smart electricity meters that include WAN/NAN communication modules, Instacertify can help you navigate the certification process seamlessly.
Our experts assist with:
- Reviewing and validating your BIS test reports.
- Preparing self-declaration documents as per TEC format.
- Coordinating with testing laboratories for compliant documentation.
- Managing MTCTE certification submissions efficiently.
Conclusion
The TEC clarification on acceptance of test reports for Smart Electricity Meters under IS 16444 provides a clear roadmap for compliance.
By following these updated guidelines, manufacturers can avoid re-testing, streamline certification timelines, and ensure their smart meters meet India’s regulatory and technical standards.
