India’s First Port-Based Green Hydrogen Project Launched at VOC Port

India’s First Port-Based Green Hydrogen Project Launched at VOC Port

India has taken a giant leap toward a clean energy future with the inauguration of its first port-based green hydrogen pilot project at the V.O. Chidambaranar (VOC) Port in Tamil Nadu. This flagship initiative reflects India’s commitment to sustainable development, aligning seamlessly with national missions like Viksit Bharat 2047 and the Sagarmala programme aimed at modernizing ports and promoting green infrastructure.

Green Hydrogen Pilot Project: A Sustainable Innovation

The pilot facility at VOC Port is designed to produce green hydrogen at a capacity of 10 Nm³ per hour. Established at a cost of ₹3.87 crore, this facility powers streetlights and an electric vehicle (EV) charging station within the port colony using clean hydrogen fuel. Through this, VOC Port has become the first Indian port to generate green hydrogen onsite, significantly reducing its carbon footprint and serving as a model for other ports nationwide.

This project also supports the Indian government’s vision of developing a Coastal Green Shipping Corridor between Kandla and Tuticorin, emphasizing carbon-neutral operations in the maritime sector.

Green Methanol Bunkering and Refuelling Facility

In tandem with hydrogen production, VOC Port laid the foundation for a Green Methanol Bunkering and Refuelling Facility with a 750 m³ capacity and a budget of ₹35.34 crore. This facility is set to position VOC Port as a strategic hub for green bunkering in South India, promoting sustainable alternatives to conventional marine fuels and accelerating decarbonization in shipping.

Renewable Energy and Port Infrastructure Developments

VOC Port continues to enhance its sustainable energy capacity with the installation of a 400 KW rooftop solar plant, raising its total rooftop solar generation to 1.04 MW, the highest among Indian ports. Other infrastructure projects include a ₹24.5 crore link conveyor for boosting coal handling efficiency by 0.72 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA), alongside ambitious plans for a 6 MW wind farm, a ₹90 crore multi-cargo berth, a 3.37 km four-lane road, and a maritime heritage museum to celebrate the port’s legacy.

Strategic Importance of VOC Port

Located on India’s Coromandel Coast in Tuticorin, VOC Port is one of the country’s thirteen major ports with a critical role in regional trade, coal handling, and container services. Renamed in honour of freedom fighter V.O. Chidambaranar, the port has witnessed substantial investments exceeding ₹16,000 crore under the Sagarmala programme, focusing on modernization and capacity enhancement to meet growing trade demands.

Alignment with National Missions and Growth Prospects

The green hydrogen and methanol projects reflect India’s strategic vision through Viksit Bharat 2047, which prioritizes sustainability, speed, scale, and self-reliance. The government aims to position India among the world’s leading shipbuilding and maritime nations by 2030 and beyond. These initiatives are expected to generate employment, drive global investments, and bolster Tamil Nadu’s pivotal role in India’s economic advancement.

Collaborations and Future Developments

To reinforce infrastructure and sustainability, VOC Port signed Memorandums of Understanding with the Indian Port Rail and Ropeway Corporation Ltd for enhancing rail connectivity to the Outer Harbour project. Another MoU with NTPC will focus on advancing green mobility and energy solutions at the port, further pushing India’s clean energy agenda.