V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOCPA) has unveiled an ambitious, phased roadmap to transform itself into a fully integrated green hydrogen and alternative fuels hub, building on the success of India’s first port-based green hydrogen pilot project.
Pilot Validates Technical and Operational Readiness
The port’s 10 Nm³/hr green hydrogen pilot facility—already powering port streetlights and an EV charging station—has validated the technical feasibility of renewable-powered hydrogen production within a port ecosystem. The pilot demonstrated stable operations, on-site production, storage, and end-use applications without grid dependency.
Beyond technology validation, the project helped VOCPA address end-to-end lifecycle challenges, from design and safety protocols to operational integration. The experience has laid the groundwork for modular expansion, with plans to scale the pilot plant in phases up to 10 MW. The expanded capacity is expected to support green mobility initiatives, including hydrogen-powered trucks for port operations.
Commercial Hydrogen Hub Taking Shape
VOCPA has already allotted 206 acres of land to major energy players including Green Infra, ReNew and Gentari for commercial-scale green hydrogen production. The first stage of commercial production is targeted for 2029.
In parallel, the port has signed MoUs worth over ₹42,000 crore with companies such as ACME Green Hydrogen and CGS Energy, aligning these investments under a structured hydrogen roadmap being developed with support from Boston Consulting Group (BCG). The roadmap aligns with India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission and global maritime decarbonisation pathways.
VOCPA’s role remains primarily that of an enabler—providing land, developing common-user infrastructure, and ensuring connectivity—while large-scale plants are expected to be developed under PPP models.
Green Methanol Bunkering by March 2026
In a significant move to support maritime decarbonisation, VOCPA plans to commission a 750 m³ green methanol bunkering and refuelling facility on 17 March 2026. Positioned along the Rotterdam–Singapore Green Shipping Corridor, the port aims to serve as a strategic refuelling hub for methanol-powered vessels.
The port projects green methanol demand of around 1 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA) by 2030, reflecting rising global adoption of alternative marine fuels.
Integrated Infrastructure and Safety Framework
VOCPA is developing fuel-specific storage, compression, and distribution infrastructure to serve maritime, industrial, and mobility sectors. Pipeline connectivity within the port estate and up to export berths is planned to enable seamless movement of hydrogen derivatives.
While green methanol bunkering is the immediate priority, the port is also exploring hydrogen bunkering for marine and industrial applications. Safety protocols under consideration include compliance with OISD standards such as OISD-117 and OISD-118, along with international best practices.
To address renewable intermittency, the port is establishing a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) to ensure stable, round-the-clock low-carbon power supply for hydrogen production.
Strategic Location Advantage
Located close to major international sea routes, VOCPA positions itself as a natural gateway for direct export and bunkering of green ammonia and hydrogen derivatives. Its all-weather operations, deep-draft berths, and multimodal connectivity via road and rail further strengthen its competitive edge.
The port is also engaging closely with the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways and state authorities to secure policy support, approvals, and infrastructure assistance, particularly in power intake and common-user facilities.
Sustainability Metrics and Long-Term Vision
Under the Harit Sagar guidelines, VOCPA is developing a comprehensive sustainability performance matrix covering renewable energy mix, lifecycle emissions, water usage, and operational efficiency. The framework is expected to be finalised within six months.
Positioning itself as both a green hydrogen hub and an emerging offshore wind hub, VOCPA aims to serve dual roles: a major bunkering and export centre for green fuels, and a regional industrial supply node supporting decarbonisation of nearby industries.
As global shipping transitions toward low-carbon fuels, VOCPA’s early investments in pilot projects, common infrastructure, and institutional preparedness place it among India’s frontrunners in port-led energy transition.
