Colombia REPIT Guide for BESS Import
As energy storage systems (BESS) gain momentum in global renewable energy projects, ensuring regulatory compliance becomes increasingly important. In Colombia, REPIT certification is a mandatory requirement for importing and deploying BESS equipment, especially for projects involving grid connection or participation in government programs. This document offers a comprehensive overview of what REPIT is, why it matters, the steps involved in obtaining it, and how we as a supplier can support you throughout the process. Whether you are an importer, project developer, or integrator, understanding REPIT will help you avoid delays, reduce costs, and meet Colombia’s national energy standards with confidence.
What is REPIT Certification?
REPIT stands for Registro de Productos de Energía con Pruebas Internacionales Tipo, a certification and registration scheme managed by UPME (Unidad de Planeación Minero Energética) in Colombia. It applies to energy-related products such as solar modules, inverters, and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). The purpose is to ensure these products meet international testing standards before being imported into Colombia for grid-connected or energy-related projects.
Why is REPIT Certification Needed?
Mandatory for Customs Clearance: Products without REPIT registration cannot be legally imported into Colombia.
Grid Connection Requirement: BESS intended for grid-tied projects must have REPIT certification as part of the interconnection process.
Eligibility for Government Projects: REPIT is a basic requirement for suppliers to participate in public or government-supported renewable energy programs.
Product Safety & Compliance: It ensures that only high-quality, internationally tested equipment enters the market, protecting system integrity and user safety.
Which Countries Require REPIT for BESS Imports?
Currently, only Colombia requires REPIT registration for importing Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). Other Latin American countries such as Mexico, Chile, and Brazil have their own certification systems (e.g., NOM, SEC, INMETRO) but do not require REPIT.
Are There Related Policies, Regulations, or Incentives?
Law 1715 (2014): This Colombian legislation supports renewable energy development and grants incentives for technologies like BESS. Products registered under REPIT may be eligible for import duty or VAT exemptions.
UPME Project Participation: Projects funded or supported by UPME or the Ministry of Mines and Energy often require REPIT-certified equipment.
DIAN Tax Exemptions: Certified energy products may apply for customs tax relief through Colombia’s national tax and customs agency (DIAN).
What Other Certifications Are Required Besides REPIT?
Before applying for REPIT, the following international certifications are typically required:
IEC Standards (Mandatory):
IEC 62619: Safety for industrial lithium batteries
IEC 63056: Safety for secondary batteries in energy storage
IEC 61000-6-2 / 6-4: EMC compatibility
Test Reports or CB Certificates:
Should be issued by recognized third-party labs such as TÜV, SGS, or Intertek
Other Documents:
UN38.3 report, MSDS, and transport safety documentation for air/sea logistics compliance
How Long Does It Take to Get REPIT Certification?
The estimated timeline for REPIT certification is as follows:
| Stage | Duration |
| IEC Testing (if not already done) | 4 – 8 weeks |
| Test Report Preparation | 1 – 2 weeks (faster if CB reports are available) |
| Document Preparation & REPIT Application | 1 – 2 weeks |
| UPME Review & Registration | 4 – 6 weeks (may vary depending on queue) |
Total Estimated Time: 8 – 14 weeks
(If valid IEC certificates are already available, the process may shorten to around 6 – 8 weeks.)
Conclusion
Navigating REPIT certification is essential for successfully entering the Colombian market with battery energy storage systems. By understanding the process, requirements, and associated responsibilities, you can plan effectively and ensure your project moves forward without regulatory obstacles. With our full support in documentation, IEC compliance, and technical coordination, we aim to make the REPIT registration process efficient and reliable. If you are preparing to import BESS into Colombia, we recommend starting the certification process early — and we’re here to assist you every step of the way.
FAQ:
Who is responsible for applying for the REPIT certificate — the manufacturer or the importer?
In most cases, the importer or project developer in Colombia is the primary applicant for REPIT registration. However, the manufacturer (such as us) must provide complete technical documentation and testing certificates. Close cooperation between both parties is essential to complete the process smoothly.
What technical documents or support should the supplier provide?
We (the supplier) will provide the following required documents for REPIT registration:
Product specifications and technical datasheets
IEC certificates and CB test reports
Electrical diagrams and system integration drawings
Installation manuals
MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet)
UN38.3 transportation test report
Any additional documents requested by UPME
What are the risks of not having REPIT certification?
Without REPIT registration, the product:
Cannot pass Colombian customs clearance
Will not be accepted for grid-connected or government-backed projects
May lead to project delays and increased compliance costs
Could damage the brand’s reputation and delay market entry
Can the supplier assist with the REPIT registration process?
Yes. While the REPIT application must be submitted by the importer, we will:
Provide all necessary technical documents
Recommend accredited third-party labs for IEC testing (if needed)
Offer technical clarification support during the submission process
Assist with compliance planning and documentation review
Is REPIT certification permanent or does it require renewal?
Generally, REPIT registration is valid indefinitely as long as the product design and specifications remain unchanged. However, if the product undergoes significant modification (e.g., battery chemistry, system configuration), a new REPIT registration may be required. It’s recommended to monitor any regulatory updates from UPME for long-term planning.
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