Empowering India’s Industries with Efficient Motors: QCO Compliance & BIS Certification Under IS 12615

Komal7 May 2025

In a move to promote energy efficiency and ensure the quality of industrial equipment, the Government of India has mandated the BIS certification for Line Operated Three Phase A.C. Motors through a Quality Control Order (QCO). This regulatory initiative brings electric motors under the purview of compulsory certification to align Indian industry standards with international energy efficiency benchmarks.

What is a Quality Control Order (QCO)?

A Quality Control Order (QCO) is issued by the Government of India, under the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Act, to mandate compliance with specific Indian Standards for certain products. Once a QCO is in effect, manufacturers, importers, and sellers are legally required to obtain BIS certification for the listed product. Selling or distributing non-compliant products is prohibited and punishable by law.

For Three Phase Induction Motors, the applicable QCO is the “Energy Efficient Induction Motors–Three Phase Squirrel Cage (Quality Control) Order, 2017”, notified via S.O. 178(E) and amended by S.O. 3207(E). Compliance has been mandatory from January 1, 2018, as per the amendment.

Overview of Indian Standard IS 12615:2018

The Indian Standard IS 12615:2018 titled “Line Operated Three Phase A.C. Motors (IE Code) – Efficiency Classes and Performance Specification” defines:

Efficiency Classes (IE1, IE2, IE3, IE4)in alignment with international standard IEC 60034-30-1
Performance and design specifications for motors used in industrial applications
Test methods and requirements for rated power (0.12 kW to 1000 kW), voltage, and frequency
Environmental conditions(e.g., temperature and altitude) for operation
Minimum Efficiency Performance Standards (MEPS)to promote energy savings and sustainability

Scope: This standard applies to single-speed, squirrel cage, line-operated three-phase induction motors, primarily used in pumps, fans, compressors, conveyors, and other industrial machines.

Why is BIS Certification Important for These Motors?

Ensures compliance with energy efficiency norms
Reduces power consumption in industrial applications
Enables legal manufacturing and sales in India
Avoids penalties under the BIS Act, 2016
Builds trust with buyers and enhances market access for manufacturers

Manufacturers—both domestic and foreign—must get their motors tested and certified under Scheme I (ISI Mark Scheme) of BIS before applying the ISI mark on their products.

Role of Omega QMS Pvt. Ltd. in BIS Certification

Navigating the BIS certification process under a QCO can be complex and time-consuming. That’s where Omega QMS Pvt. Ltd., a leading compliance and certification consultancy, steps in.

With extensive expertise in regulatory compliance and quality management systems, Omega QMS plays a vital role in helping manufacturers achieve BIS certification efficiently.

Services Offered by Omega QMS Pvt. Ltd.

Product Evaluation & Applicability Assessment
- Determines whether a motor falls under IS 12615 and requires BIS certification.
- Reviews product specifications to match applicable IE class.
Documentation Support
- Assists in compiling the application dossier as per BIS requirements.
- Prepares technical files, test reports, declarations, and factory details.
Testing Coordination
- Coordinates with BIS/NABL-accredited laboratories to ensure product testing as per IS 12615.
- Guides clients on sample selection, labeling, and shipping.
Application Filing & BIS Liaison
- Files the application under Scheme I (ISI Mark Scheme)of BIS for Indian or foreign manufacturers.
- Acts as an authorized liaison with BIS throughout the process.
Audit & Factory Inspection Assistance
- Prepares manufacturers for BIS factory audits and supports on-site evaluations.
- Offers compliance gap analysis and corrective action recommendations.
Post-Certification Support
- Helps in managing renewals, logo usage compliance, and market surveillance issues.
- Provides alerts on BIS updates and changes in QCO regulations.

Who Should Work with Omega QMS?

Indian Manufacturers needing guidance to meet BIS norms for motors.
Foreign OEMs & Exporters wanting to sell motors in India.
Distributors & Importers who source motors globally and seek BIS-certified products.

The Bigger Picture

With India’s aggressive push for energy efficiency and reduced carbon footprint, the BIS certification of motors plays a vital role in transforming industrial operations. It fosters standardization, boosts equipment performance, and saves energy at scale.

By partnering with Omega QMS Pvt. Ltd., manufacturers can not only meet regulatory expectations but also gain a competitive edge in the Indian market.

Ready to Get BIS Certified?

Omega QMS Pvt. Ltd. is here to help. From start to finish, we simplify the certification journey and ensure full compliance with Indian standards.