The port’s first sustainability report shows renewable energy now offsets nearly 94 per cent of total consumption, while net carbon emissions have fallen by about 45 per cent.
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal has commended VO Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOCPA) for emerging as a model of sustainable maritime development in India.
Dedicating a series of sustainability, education, and innovation initiatives at VOCPA on Tuesday, Sonowal cited the findings of the port’s first sustainability report, which revealed that renewable energy now offsets nearly 94 per cent of the port’s energy consumption equivalent, while net carbon emissions have been reduced by around 45 per cent. The report also noted that carbon intensity per tonne of cargo has been halved over the past four years, reinforcing VOC Port’s position as a frontrunner in India’s green maritime transition.
“VOC Port is demonstrating what can be achieved when infrastructure development is guided by sustainability, innovation, and community welfare. The port’s achievement in reducing net carbon emissions by 45 per cent is a significant milestone in India’s journey towards greener and more responsible maritime growth,” Sonowal said.
The Union Minister also released the IIM Calcutta case study The Hydrogen Pivot: Orchestrating the Green Transition at VO Chidambaranar Port Authority. The study highlights the port’s pioneering efforts in renewable energy, electrification, and green hydrogen development, including India’s first green hydrogen pilot project commissioned at a major port.
Further strengthening its credentials as one of India’s leading green ports, VOC Port received recognition as a Scope‑2 Emission Free Port.
The VOC Port Authority signed an MoU with Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya, Vadodara, to promote collaboration in research, innovation, logistics education, skill development, and sustainable port operations. The partnership is expected to facilitate the establishment of a Centre of Excellence in Maritime Logistics and Port Management while creating new opportunities for industry‑academia engagement.
The minister also launched the PortGPT mobile application, making VOC Port the first major port in India to extend an enterprise‑grade generative AI platform through a dedicated mobile app to enhance operational efficiency, knowledge management, and data‑driven decision‑making.
Another highlight of the event was the commencement of academic activities at Kendriya Vidyalaya, VOC Port, for the 2026‑27 academic session.