V. O. Chidambaranar (VOC) Port in Thoothukudi has made history as the first Indian port to produce green hydrogen and exceed 1 MW in rooftop solar power generation. The announcement was made by Susanta Kumar Purohit, Chairperson of VOC Port, during the “Green Ports and Shipping – Chartering Sustainable Maritime Future” conference, which highlighted India’s commitment to sustainable maritime operations.
Hosted by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the conference was part of a nationwide initiative leading up to India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai. It showcased advancements in maritime innovation, environmental stewardship, and progressive policy frameworks, emphasizing VOC Port’s pioneering role in eco-friendly practices within India’s port ecosystem.
The conference aimed to foster dialogue around achieving net-zero emissions in the shipping industry. Purohit stated that the NAVIC Cell-3 has seen significant results, with several major ports, including VOC, transitioning to energy-efficient systems. Notable discussions included sessions on decarbonization and green financing, with Vijay Kumar from the Inland Waterways Authority emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts to meet India’s net-zero target by 2070. The ministry is focused on promoting renewable energy and adopting greener operational practices across the sector.
