VOC Port to be green hydrogen-ammonia hub with an investment of Rs 41,860 crore

V O Chidambaranar (VOC) Port, a key seaport in Tamil Nadu, is set to transform into the nation’s Green Hydrogen-Ammonia hub, with investments totalling Rs 41,860 crore.

An official statement from the port has said, “With the steady rise in cargo volumes, the port has launched several strategic initiatives to boost capacity, streamline cargo movement, and strengthen its market presence in the region.”

The port is now actively expanding its capacity as a response to increased cargo handling this year. As of December 19, 2024, VOC Port has managed 29.70 million tonnes of cargo, including 5.62 lakh TEUs of containers – reflecting overall growth of 1.87% and 6.74%, respectively.

To solidify its role as India’s Green Hydrogen-Ammonia hub, VOC Port had allocated 501 acres of land, revealed in September this year, to four companies for establishing manufacturing and storage facilities. These companies are Renew E-fuels Pvt. Ltd. (10 acres), Acme Green Hydrogen & Chemicals (310 acres), Green Infra Renewal Energy Farms Pvt. Ltd. (149 acres) and Amplus Ganges Solar Pvt. Ltd. (32 acres).

This green hydrogen project is valued at Rs 41,860 crore and will be part of the port’s long-term green energy vision. According to reports, a pilot project for green hydrogen production, storage, and fuel cell power generation is already underway and expected to conclude by January 2025.

According to VOC Port Chairperson Susanta Kumar Purohit, the port’s strategic location along the East-West international sea route, year-round operational capabilities, swift container ship turnaround, and robust road and rail connectivity position it as a potential gateway port for South India. The port is also planning a green hydrogen bunkering pilot to showcase refueling capabilities for hydrogen and its derivatives.