V.O. Chidambaranar Port becomes first Indian port to partner with H2Global for green hydrogen export to Europe

V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOCPA) has become the first Indian port to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with H2Global for establishing green hydrogen and derivative export corridors to Europe, marking a significant milestone in India’s clean energy trade ambitions.

The partnership, formalised on June 3, 2026, at the port’s headquarters in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, establishes a strategic framework for developing green hydrogen infrastructure, facilitating export logistics, and creating dedicated maritime supply chains connecting India’s southern coast with European markets.

The MoU positions VOCPA as a key gateway for India’s emerging green hydrogen economy, enabling the port to handle large-scale exports of green hydrogen and its derivatives, including green ammonia, to Europe’s growing clean energy market. This development aligns with India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission and the Union Commerce Minister’s recent announcement at the Vibrant Summit Gujarat 2026, where he revealed that India is already in the final stages of securing its first green hydrogen export order.

H2Global, a key German institution supporting clean energy trade, will collaborate with VOCPA to develop the technical, regulatory and logistical frameworks necessary for secure, large-volume green hydrogen exports to Europe. The partnership is expected to leverage Tamil Nadu’s strong renewable energy base, particularly its wind and solar resources, to produce green hydrogen at competitive costs for international markets.

The initiative is also expected to catalyse investments in port infrastructure, including specialised storage facilities, loading terminals, and handling equipment for green hydrogen and ammonia, while positioning Thoothukudi as a strategic hub for clean energy exports to Europe and beyond.