V.O. Chidambaranar Port (VOC Port) in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, is preparing to launch India’s first dedicated green methanol bunkering hub by the end of November 2026. According to the port authority, the facility will strengthen India’s alternative marine-fuel infrastructure and support the shipping industry’s transition towards cleaner energy. Once commercial operations begin, VOC Port will become the first port on India’s east coast to offer dedicated green methanol bunkering facilities.
Green Methanol Hub to Strengthen Marine Fuel Infrastructure
The facility has a total storage capacity of 1,500 cubic metres, distributed across two tanks of 750 cubic metres each. In addition, a 2.8-km stainless-steel pipeline connects the storage installation to the bunkering point at the jetty. The system can receive green methanol through road tankers or vessels and transfer the fuel directly to ships. It also features two transfer pumps, each with a capacity of 120 cubic metres per hour, enabling a combined transfer rate of approximately 1,20,000 litres per hour. Furthermore, the installation incorporates automated controls, remotely operated valves, emergency shutdown systems and dedicated fire-protection arrangements to ensure safe and efficient bunkering operations.
Rs 35.34 Crore Funding Under National Green Hydrogen Mission
The project is being developed under India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission, with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy allocating Rs 35.34 crore towards its implementation in the shipping sector. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has appointed VOC Port as the System Implementing Agency responsible for executing the project.
Strategic Location Offers International Bunkering Opportunities
VOC Port’s proximity to the East-West international shipping route gives it a significant geographical advantage. According to port estimates, nearly 80% of cargo vessels operating along this route pass within 130 nautical miles of Thoothukudi. Moreover, its location along the Rotterdam-Tuticorin-Singapore maritime corridor creates opportunities to attract international vessels seeking green methanol bunkering services, including ships that do not regularly call at the port. The facility could also give VOC Port a competitive advantage over neighbouring Colombo Port in Sri Lanka, which has yet to establish green methanol bunkering infrastructure.
Supporting Global Shipping Decarbonisation
The launch of the green methanol bunkering hub comes as shipping companies increasingly invest in methanol-capable vessels to reduce their carbon emissions. In addition, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) continues to advance its global efforts to decarbonise the maritime sector and encourage the adoption of cleaner marine fuels. As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, with dedicated storage, pipeline and bunkering infrastructure, VOC Port is positioning itself to participate in the emerging international green marine-fuel market. The project also represents an important step towards strengthening India’s role in sustainable shipping and alternative marine-fuel infrastructure.
