Pune– India has taken a big step towards clean and green shipping. Pune-based SOPAN Group, in partnership with the VOC Port Authority (VOCPA), has started work on the country’s first Green Methanol Bunkering & Refueling Facility at Tuticorin (VOC Port).
The foundation stone was laid by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways. This new project is seen as a major move to cut down pollution from ships and support India’s clean energy goals.
Project Highlights
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Being built by SOPAN as the EPC contractor
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750 m³ Green Methanol Storage & Bunkering Terminal to be developed
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Includes complete storage and refueling infrastructure
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Project launched as a pilot initiative
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Supports Maritime India Vision 2030 and Net Zero 2070 goals
VOCPA Chairperson Susanta Purohit said that the government is focused on making ports greener, and this project is another step after their earlier success with a green hydrogen pilot project.
SOPAN Director Aniruddha Kadvekar added that the facility could help reduce up to 95% of ship-related CO₂ emissions, making Indian ports more eco-friendly and globally competitive.
A Step Towards Green Shipping
The Green Methanol project is part of India’s larger vision to achieve Net Zero by 2070. Once ready, the Tuticorin facility will make India one of the early adopters of clean methanol fuel in shipping, strengthening its position as a leader in sustainable port development.