In a landmark step towards sustainable maritime development, V.O. Chidambaranar (VOC) Port Authority in Tuticorin has become the first port in India to produce green hydrogen, marking a major leap in the country’s clean energy ambitions. The initiative was inaugurated by Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, who also witnessed the signing of two critical MoUs with NTPC Green Energy Ltd and Indian Port Rail Corporation Ltd (IPRCL).
Green Hydrogen Pilot: A National First
The Green Hydrogen Pilot Project, established at a cost of Rs 3.87 crore, will generate 10 Nm³/hr of green hydrogen. The clean energy will be used to power streetlights in the port colony and support an electric vehicle (EV) charging station. With this, VOC Port has set a new benchmark as India’s first port to integrate green hydrogen into its daily operations.
MoUs to Boost Connectivity & Green Mobility
Two strategic partnerships were sealed to strengthen port operations and sustainability:
●VOC Port & IPRCL: Collaboration to develop rail connectivity to the upcoming Outer Harbour Project, which will significantly improve cargo handling efficiency.
●VOC Port & NTPC Green Energy Ltd: Agreement to roll out green mobility solutions, including large-scale EV infrastructure at the port.
Green Methanol & Shipping Corridor Plans
The Union Minister also laid the foundation for a pilot green methanol bunkering and refueling facility with a 750 m³ capacity, at a cost of ₹35.34 crore. This project aligns with the proposed Coastal Green Shipping Corridor between Kandla and Tuticorin, reinforcing VOC Port’s role as a green maritime hub in South India.
Other Sustainability Milestones at VOC Port
●A new 400 KW rooftop solar plant, boosting total solar capacity to 1.04 MW – the highest among Indian ports.
●A Rs 24.5 crore link conveyor connecting Coal Jetty-I to the port stack yard, improving coal handling capacity by 0.72 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA).
Driving India’s Energy Transition
VOC Port Authority: Positioned as a gateway for South India, actively investing in clean energy and sustainable infrastructure.
NTPC Green Energy Ltd: A subsidiary of NTPC, spearheading India’s shift towards renewable energy including solar, wind, and hydrogen.
IPRCL: A joint venture of Indian Railways and major ports, ensuring robust rail-port integration for efficient cargo logistics.
With these bold steps, VOC Port is not just modernizing maritime trade but also setting a global example in green port development, ensuring India’s ports become hubs of innovation, connectivity, and sustainability.
