DPA Kandla conducts India’s first-ever methanol bunkering

GANDHIDHAM : Kandla does it again-1st Methanol Bunkering In India. DPA Kandla successfully demonstrates Methanol Bunkering at Kandla – the First-Ever in India’s Port sector. A decisive step towards Maritime Decarbonization.

In a significant step towards greener maritime operations, Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), which operates Kandla Port, on Thursday announced that it has successfully conducted India’s first-ever methanol bunkering operation at a port.

Announcing the achievement, DPA stated, “DPA Kandla successfully demonstrates methanol bunkering at Kandla — the first-ever in India’s port sector. A decisive step towards maritime decarbonization.”

DPA Chairman Shri Sushil Kumar Singh IRSME said ,” A Big Thank-you to M/s. Stolt Tankers, JM Baxi, Aegis VOPAK and Indian Oil Corp. Ltd., for their participation in the joint exercise today !! Thanks to DNV for validating custody transfer process !!”

Methanol, considered a cleaner alternative fuel, plays a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions in maritime transport.

What is Methanol Bunkering?

Methanol bunkering refers to the process of supplying methanol fuel to ships for propulsion. Unlike traditional marine fuels such as heavy fuel oil or diesel, methanol burns cleaner, producing significantly lower emissions of sulphur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter. It can also help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, especially when produced from renewable sources such as biomass or captured carbon.

Methanol is gaining traction globally as a viable alternative marine fuel because it is easier to store and handle compared to some other green fuels, and can be used in specially designed or retrofitted ship engines. As the shipping industry faces increasing pressure to cut emissions, methanol bunkering infrastructure is expected to play a key role in the transition towards sustainable maritime operations.

With this milestone, Kandla Port has once again positioned itself at the forefront of innovation in India’s maritime industry, setting a precedent for other ports to follow in the transition towards greener fuel solutions.