India Has Potential to Become Hub for Green Shipbuilding: Maritime Expert

India’s government’s strong focus on alternative fuels and renewable energy has positioned it as a potential hub for green shipbuilding, according to maritime expert Cristina Saenz de Santa Maria of DNV. She highlighted that modernization and upgradation of Indian shipyards are ongoing, with older dockyards being assessed for reopening and expanding capacities for green shipbuilding due to increased global demand.

The Indian government is encouraging investments and technology transfer from Japanese and Korean shipyards to establish shipbuilding and ship repair clusters in the country. This initiative aligns with the International Maritime Organization’s goal of eliminating greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Ship owners are also investing in environmentally-friendly assets, driving the demand for competitively priced yard space in India.

DNV, a Norway-based testing, certification, and technical advisory services provider, operates in over 100 countries with a maritime network of over 3,400 professionals, including in India. They have published a white paper titled ‘Indian Coastal Green Shipping Programme’ in 2023, commissioned by the Royal Norwegian Consulate General in Mumbai. The paper provides insights into how coastal shipping can reduce India’s carbon emissions and transition to green shipping, drawing on Norway’s successful Green Shipping Programme.

DNV has expanded its maritime advisory unit in India to provide local clients with access to global expertise in decarbonization, digitalization, safety, risk management, compliance, and ESG. The group has set up a global shared services center in Pune and has seen significant workforce growth in India, with plans for further expansion to support new contracts and businesses. Santa Maria emphasized DNV’s commitment to helping India’s shipping industry achieve its net-zero goals and country vision for 2047.

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