Kandla and Thoothukudi ports receive 13 Eol for green hydrogen hub development
India’s ports are rapidly moving towards a greener future with a focus on green hydrogen production and infrastructure development. In a recent meeting chaired by Ports and Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, the Deendayal Port Authority in Kandla, Gujarat, revealed that it has received 13 expressions of interest (Eol) for the development of a green hydrogen hub at the port.
The Eol is for 7 million metric tons per annum (MMTPA) of green ammonia production, catering to a global demand of 1.4 MMTPA of green hydrogen. This aligns with India’s ambitious target of becoming a global leader in green hydrogen production.
Green Hydrogen Hubs Taking Shape
In another significant development, the V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, has allocated 500 acres of land for a green hydrogen hub at the port. The port has already signed a memorandum of understanding with NTPC Green Energy to develop a green hydrogen/derivative production facility. A proposal for a grant for infrastructure support has been submitted to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.
These developments underscore India’s commitment to transitioning to a clean energy future and reducing its reliance on fossil fuels. Green hydrogen is seen as a key enabler for this transition, and India is well-positioned to become a major player in this field.
Prioritizing Renewable Energy
The Ports and Shipping Ministry has outlined a series of initiatives to ‘green’ India’s ports and maritime infrastructure. The priority would be to prioritize cutting greenhouse gas emissions to make the Indian maritime sector sustainable.
The ministry is also developing the Paradip Port in Odisha as a hydrogen hub, with the goal of handling, storing, and producing green hydrogen to achieve a 60% share of renewable energy in total power demand and a 30% reduction in carbon emissions per ton of cargo handled by 2030.
Shore Power Supply
Last November, the government launched the National Center of Excellence for Green Port and Shipping with a mandate to help major ports in the country source as much as 60% of their energy demand from renewable sources (solar and wind).
Currently, less than 10% of the total energy demand for major ports is met by green energy. Indian ports aim to reduce carbon emissions by 30% by 2030 per ton of cargo handled.
India is already supplying shore power to ships with a power demand of less than 150 kW at present and is targeting to supply shore power to all visiting vessels.
India’s ports are playing a pivotal role in the country’s transition to a clean energy future. With a focus on green hydrogen production, renewable energy integration, and shore power supply, India’s ports are paving the way for a sustainable and environmentally friendly maritime sector.
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