The Deendayal Port Authority (Kandla Port) has made significant strides in promoting green shipping by successfully conducting methanol bunkering, which involves refueling ships with methanol, a cleaner alternative to traditional marine fuels. This trial positions India’s ports to lead in low-carbon trade corridors and contributes to the maritime sector’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions.
The shore-to-ship trial validated the port’s infrastructure and operational protocols, marking a crucial step in India’s adoption of cleaner marine fuels. Kandla aims to provide approximately 500 KTPA of Renewable Fuels of Non-Biological Origin (RFNBO)-compliant e-methanol by 2028-29, targeting dual-fuel vessels along the Asia-Europe trade route. Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, emphasized that by adopting cleaner fuels and developing advanced infrastructure, India aligns its maritime sector with global sustainability objectives.
Kandla Port, located on India’s western coast, has a history of handling grey methanol and already possesses compatible infrastructure. The port is now enhancing its capabilities for dedicated methanol bunkering. To evaluate its readiness, Kandla collaborated with DNV Maritime Advisory Services, achieving a Level 6 rating on the International Association of Ports and Harbors’ Port Readiness Level scale for methanol bunkering.
Following the successful shore-to-ship trial, Kandla plans to initiate ship-to-ship methanol bunkering to further enhance its operational capabilities. This progress is expected to bolster the development of green shipping corridors and solidify India’s role in the evolving low-carbon maritime ecosystem.
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