India’s first Green Methanol Bunkering & Refueling Facility Ground breaking ceremony initiated
PUNE: Pune based SOPAN Group in collaboration with VOC Port Authority (VOCPA) laid the foundation for India’s first Green Methanol Bunkering & Refueling Facility, a pioneering advancement in sustainable maritime infrastructure in the country
The landmark facility was inaugurated by Hon’ble Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, under the aegis of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, representing a significant step towards decarbonizing Indian ports and supporting the country’s clean energy transition.
Project Highlights:
- Entire project executed by M/s SOPAN as the EPC Contractor
- Development of a 750 m³ Green Methanol Storage & Bunkering Terminal
- Construction of complete Storage Facility and Plant Infrastructure
- Project delivered on a pilot basis
- Delivered through a comprehensive EPC model
This green methanol facility aligns with India’s commitment to Net Zero emissions and the goals of Maritime India Vision 2030, promoting clean fuels and sustainable port development.
Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, the Honourable Union Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways laid the foundation stone for launching India’s first pilot scale port decarbonisation project focussing on Green Methanol as a fuel source for Shipping at the VO Chidambaranar Port Authority, earlier known as Tuticorin Port Trust on 5th September 2025. The project involves development of a 750 m³ Green Methanol Bunkering and Ship Refueling Terminal.
Chairperson of VOCPA Shri Susanta Purohit said “The Govt of India has set a vision for India to achieve Net Zero by 2070. VOC Port in line with this vision is taking bold steps in advancing its Green Port mission and have successfully completed a pilot green hydrogen project. In our pursuit of sustainability and set global standards, VOCPA is establishing India’s first Green Methanol Bunkering & Refueling facility. VOCPA is pleased to partner with India’s SOPAN Group, an experienced player in the Green Energy ecosystem and EPC Projects.
Shri Aniruddha Kadvekar, the Director of SOPAN said, “Today, SOPAN is not just building a facility; we are laying the foundation for India’s green maritime future. By establishing the nation’s first dedicated Green Methanol Bunkering Hub at VOC Port Tuticorin, we are enabling a reduction of up to 95% in CO2 emissions for ships and positioning India as a key player in the global alternative fuel market. This marquee project is a testament to our ‘Make in India’ capabilities and a monumental leap towards Net-Zero, ensuring Indian ports become the preferred choice for sustainable shipping. We thank VOC Port Authority in reposing trust in us and Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways for supporting this bold vision.