As global IoT security governance enters a new phase, the JC-STAR Certification (Japan Cyber Security Technical Requirements for Secure IoT Devices Conformity Assessment and Labeling Scheme), officially implemented by Japan in 2025, has become a key security access standard for smart hardware, industrial equipment, and energy storage systems to enter the Japanese market. For manufacturers planning to export energy storage devices and smart home products to Japan, understanding and proactively preparing for JC-STAR Certification is not only a necessary step to comply with regulations but also a strategic choice to enhance product competitiveness and gain trust in the high-end market.

What is JC-STAR Certification?

JC-STAR is a cybersecurity conformity assessment and labeling system for IoT devices supervised by Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and led by the Information-technology Promotion Agency (IPA). This system intuitively displays the security level of products through graded labels (1-4 stars), with its legal basis derived from the Information Processing Promotion Act, aiming to systematically raise the security baseline of IoT devices across society.

It covers a wide range of devices, explicitly including:

• Energy storage systems (e.g., household energy storage batteries, industrial and commercial energy storage equipment)

• Smart home devices (cameras, routers, gateways, etc.)

• Industrial IoT devices

• Sensors and controllers, etc.

Core Requirements and Grade Classification of JC-STAR Certification

JC-STAR adopts a four-level evaluation system, with security requirements increasing progressively:

• STAR-1: Basic security requirements, covering password policies, vulnerability management, software updates, etc., which are already compatible with the core content of the EU's ETSI EN 303 645 and the UK's PSTI.

• STAR-2: Adds supply chain security and operation and maintenance security requirements on the basis of STAR-1.

• STAR-3/STAR-4: Target high-security scenarios (e.g., critical infrastructure, energy systems), requiring advanced threat protection, security incident response, and continuous monitoring capabilities.

For energy storage devices, STAR-1 is the basic threshold for entering the consumer market, while if the target customers are power companies or government energy projects, STAR-3 or higher is usually required.

Why Must Energy Storage Equipment Enterprises Pay Attention to JC-STAR?

1. Mandatory Requirement for Market Access

The Japanese government and critical infrastructure sectors (e.g., power, water utilities) have gradually made JC-STAR Certification a necessary condition for procurement. Energy storage products without certification will be difficult to enter their supply chain systems.

2. Brand Trust Building

Products with the JC-STAR label represent official recognition of their security by Japan, which can significantly distinguish them from competitors, especially in the high-end energy storage market that values security.

3. Forward-Looking Compliance Layout

Global IoT security regulations are becoming increasingly stringent. By obtaining JC-STAR Certification, enterprises not only meet Japanese requirements but also accumulate systematic experience in responding to similar standards in the EU, North America, and other regions.

How Can Enterprises Efficiently Obtain JC-STAR Certification?

Step 1: Scope Confirmation and Grade Planning

Clarify whether the product falls within the certification scope (energy storage devices are usually included) and select the appropriate certification grade based on target customers and market positioning.

Step 2: Gap Analysis and Rectification Implementation

Against the JC-STAR requirement list, systematically evaluate the product's current status in terms of identity authentication, communication encryption, vulnerability management, data protection, etc., and conduct targeted technical rectification and management process optimization.

Step 3: Document Preparation and Evaluation Submission

Collate technical documents, security test reports, supply chain security management records, and other materials, and submit them to an evaluation agency recognized by IPA for review.

Step 4: Label Use and Continuous Maintenance

After passing the evaluation, enterprises can use the corresponding star-rated label on products and promotions, and need to establish a continuous monitoring and update mechanism to maintain compliance status.

Choose a Professional Partner to Empower the Entire Certification Process

Guangdong Energy Storage Testing Technology Co., Ltd., deeply engaged in the field of energy storage equipment safety testing and compliance certification, can provide customers with:

• JC-STAR pre-evaluation and gap analysis to accurately locate rectification key points

• Technical rectification support, covering hardware security, firmware protection, data encryption, etc.

• Full-process guidance and document assistance to improve certification efficiency

• Multi-country compliance integration services to help enterprises meet international standards such as JC-STAR, ETSI, and UL 9540A simultaneously

JC-STAR Certification has ushered in the "certification-based market access" era for Japan's IoT and energy storage markets. Planning for certification early is not only a compliance measure but also a key link for enterprises to build long-term market competitiveness.

To learn more about JC-STAR Certification details and obtain a special plan for energy storage devices, welcome to contact Guangdong Energy Storage Testing Technology Co., Ltd. We will help you achieve steady overseas expansion and seize market opportunities with professional services.