AM Green, one of India’s leading green hydrogen and green ammonia developers, partnered with the VO Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOCPA) to establish a large-scale green ammonia bunkering hub at Thoothukudi (Tuticorin), Tamil Nadu. The initiative is expected to play a key role in advancing India’s green maritime fuel ecosystem and supporting the global transition toward low-carbon shipping. The two organizations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly develop VOC Port as a strategic center for green ammonia production, storage, and marine bunkering.
₹2,000 Crore Investment Planned for Initial Phase
AM Green and VOCPA aim to develop up to 200 kilo tons per annum (KTPA) of green ammonia bunkering capacity by 2029–30. The first phase of the project is expected to attract an investment of approximately ₹2,000 crore. The collaboration combines AM Green’s expertise in large-scale green ammonia production with VOC Port’s extensive experience in handling liquid ammonia and its designation as a National Green Hydrogen Hub. Together, the partners aim to create a robust infrastructure ecosystem capable of supporting the growing demand for sustainable marine fuels.
Capacity Expansion to 500 KTPA by 2035
The partners have identified the potential to scale the bunkering capacity to 500 KTPA by 2035, subject to market demand and the pace of adoption of low-carbon fuels by the global shipping industry. The expanded project could involve a total investment of around ₹5,000 crore. To facilitate this growth, AM Green and VOCPA plan to explore pilot bunkering operations and jointly develop the necessary infrastructure in line with international standards and best practices. The initiative is expected to position Thoothukudi as one of India’s leading hubs for green ammonia bunkering and export.
Green Ammonia Production Facility to Boost Ecosystem
The agreement also strengthens AM Green’s commitment to developing a one million tons per annum (MTPA) green ammonia production facility near VOC Port. The proposed project is expected to involve an investment of approximately ₹15,000 crore. VOCPA will actively support the development of the facility by providing infrastructure assistance and facilitating project implementation. The proximity of the production plant to the port is expected to improve logistics efficiency and strengthen the overall green ammonia value chain.
Major Investments in Renewable Energy
AM Green has already completed a significant portion of the land acquisition required for the integrated green hydrogen and ammonia complex. In addition, the project is expected to drive nearly ₹35,000 crore in renewable energy investments, creating a strong foundation for sustainable fuel production. The development aligns with the company’s broader vision of establishing more than 4 MTPA of green ammonia production capacity across India by 2030. By integrating renewable power generation with green hydrogen and ammonia production, AM Green aims to support both domestic decarbonization efforts and international clean energy markets.
Strategic Location Strengthens Global Ambitions
Gautam Reddy Kumbam, Chief Executive Officer of AM Green, highlighted the strategic advantages offered by VOC Port. According to him, the port’s existing ammonia-handling infrastructure, its recognition as a Green Hydrogen Hub, and its connectivity to major international shipping routes make it a critical component of AM Green’s nationwide commercialization strategy. These advantages are expected to enhance India’s ability to participate in the emerging global market for green fuels and sustainable shipping solutions.
Transforming Thoothukudi into a Green Fuels Hub
Susanta Kumar Nath, Chairperson of VO Chidambaranar Port Authority, emphasized the port’s long-standing role in India’s ammonia supply chain and its ambition to become a global center for green fuels. He noted that the collaboration with AM Green represents a natural progression in the port’s sustainability journey. VOCPA remains committed to providing the infrastructure, facilitation, and institutional support required to establish Thoothukudi as a leading destination for green ammonia bunkering and exports.
Supporting the Future of Sustainable Shipping
As the maritime industry increasingly seeks alternatives to conventional fossil fuels, green ammonia is emerging as a promising low-carbon marine fuel. The partnership between AM Green and VOCPA represents a significant step toward building the infrastructure needed to support this transition. As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, by combining large-scale production, renewable energy integration, and world-class port infrastructure, the project is expected to strengthen India’s position in the global green fuels market while contributing to the decarbonisation of international shipping.
