BIS Compliance News · 10 February 2026
BIS guidelines on verifying rated capacity of portable lithium cells and batteries
MeitY issued an order dated 3 February 2026 (No. W-47/14/2024-IPHW) noting complaints of misdeclared rated capacity on lithium cells and batteries registered under IS 16046 (Part 2):2018. It directed that rated capacity be measured using the method in clause 7.3.1 of IS 16047 (Part 3) (discharge performance at 20 °C) and reported for compliance, from 1 May 2027 for new registrations, inclusions and renewals.
BIS followed with implementation guidelines on 10 February 2026. Licensees whose licence is valid up to 30 April 2027 must show compliance by 30 April 2027; those with longer validity must do so by the end of their licence. Reports from a third-party lab for all lead models are submitted through the Standard Revision/Amendment/Essential Requirement module, with an undertaking for other models, and labs will record the measured capacity in a modified test report format.
Beyond 30 April 2027, BIS will not grant a licence under IS 16046 (Part 2) unless the rated capacity test is reported. MeitY's order also says existing registrations remain valid, but samples picked in surveillance must have capacity within the specified limits.
Who is affected
Manufacturers, importers and brands of portable lithium-ion cells and battery packs registered under IS 16046 (Part 2), including those supplying power bank and device makers.
What to do
- Check that declared mAh/Wh ratings on cells and packs match measured performance before testing.
- Book clause 7.3.1 capacity tests for all lead models and file the reports before your applicable deadline.
- Make sure new and renewal applications from May 2027 include the capacity result in the test report.
Source: BIS — Guidelines for verification of rated capacity for lithium cells and batteries, with MeitY order of 3 Feb 2026 · BIS CRS portal — List of circulars
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BIS Compliance News summarises official notifications in plain language. It is general information, not legal or regulatory advice — always confirm the current text of the order or notice, linked above, before acting.