Deendayal Port Authority (Kandla Port) has taken a significant leap in sustainable shipping by introducing methanol bunkering facilities. Detailed in a recent government release, this development underscores India’s pivotal role in global efforts to green the seas and advance national energy goals.
Targeted at the 2050 net-zero emissions target for maritime operations, the initiative promotes adoption of green fuels such as e-methanol and e-ammonia to dramatically reduce shipping’s carbon footprint. Minister Sarbananda Sonowal described it as ‘a testament to India’s resolve to spearhead the worldwide transition to green shipping through clean fuels and forward-thinking infrastructure.’
Kandla, a vital hub on the western seaboard, has managed grey methanol cargo for years, equipped with robust storage tanks, pipelines, and jetties. Now, it’s evolving these assets into dedicated bunkering operations.
A thorough readiness assessment by DNV Maritime Advisory Services reviewed existing setups against safety and regulatory standards, awarding the port ‘Level 6’ on the IAPH PRL framework.
The breakthrough came on April 2 with a flawlessly executed shore-to-ship methanol bunkering trial. Collaborators including Stolt Tankers, J.M. Baxi, Aegis Vopak, IOCL, and the port authority tested transfer mechanisms, emergency protocols, and compliance. DNV experts validated the process as benchmark-compliant.
By 2028-29, Kandla plans to supply 500 KTPA of RFNBO-compliant e-methanol, aiding dual-fuel vessels on key trade routes like Asia-Europe. The next phase targets ship-to-ship transfers to amplify service offerings.
This advancement not only propels India towards PM Modi’s net-zero vision but also sparks economic opportunities in investment, tech partnerships, and employment. Sonowal noted, ‘Such innovations transform our ports into sustainability powerhouses, enhancing our global maritime stature.’ Kandla’s trajectory promises a sustainable future for shipping.
