Policy Status and Timeline
In May 2026, the Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS) – under the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – released a draft technical regulation on mandatory product certification for solar energy systems. This draft proposes to include Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) within the scope of mandatory certification.
The regulation officially passed on June 30, 2026, and includes a phased transition period. Let us walk through the key milestones:
| Timeline | Phase |
| June 30, 2026 | Regulation officially passed. |
| Mid-July 2026 | Regulation takes effect as a legally binding administrative order. |
| Within 12 months of effectivity | Voluntary certification period – companies may proactively apply for certification; ports may begin random inspections. |
| 12 months after effectivity (~July 2027) | Mandatory certification begins – manufacturers and importers must formally initiate the certification process. |
| 36 months after effectivity (~July 2029) | Full enforcement – uncertified products prohibited from sale; comprehensive market inspections begin. |
Important note: The transition period serves as a compliance window, not an exemption. Some ports have already started random inspections on uncertified shipments. We strongly recommend planning ahead.
Certification Models and Pathways
To enter the Philippine market, C&I energy storage products must obtain one of the following two certifications:
1. PS Certification (Philippine Standards License)
- Applicable to: Manufacturers (local or overseas)
- Key features: The certificate remains valid for 3 years and requires factory audits and annual surveillance inspections. For companies looking to establish a long-term presence in the market, this offers a more competitive edge.
- Application requirement: Overseas manufacturers must appoint a local Philippine compliance representative to submit the application.
2. ICC Certification (Import Commodity Clearance)
- Applicable to: Importers
- Key features: This certification applies on a per-shipment basis. Each batch requires sample testing, and the certificate covers only that specific consignment. While it offers high flexibility, the long-term operational costs are generally higher.
Products Covered Under the Certification Scope
According to the draft regulation, mandatory certification covers core photovoltaic and storage equipment. For C&I storage, the following product categories are directly relevant:
- Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) – excluding those specifically designed for automotive applications
- Photovoltaic inverters (grid-tied, off-grid, hybrid, etc.)
- Battery charge controllers
- Solar PV modules
- Rapid shutdown devices
- PV-specific cables
Key Compliance Requirements and Reminders
- Lithium battery documentation: For storage products containing lithium batteries, you must prepare critical compliance documents – including UN38.3 test reports, MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheets), and dangerous goods packaging certificates. Failing to do so may result in cargo being held at the port.
- Technical standards: Products must comply with Philippine National Standards (PNS). For certain items, you may need to re-test against local standards such as PNS UL2056 – overseas test reports cannot fully replace these local requirements.
- Local representative: Whether you apply for PS certification or ICC certification, you must have a local Philippine legal entity or agent to manage the process.
Disclaimer: The above information is based on draft regulations published in 2026. Specific implementation rules and standards may be subject to change. Before making any investment decisions or arranging large-scale shipments, we strongly recommend consulting a qualified certification body or a Philippine-based lawyer for the most up-to-date and accurate guidance.
