VOC Port Reports 45% Reduction in Carbon Emissions, Expands Green and Digital Initiatives

V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOC Port) has reported a 45% reduction in net carbon emissions over the past four years, alongside significant progress in renewable energy adoption, digital transformation, and sustainable port operations, according to its first Sustainability Report.

The developments were highlighted during a series of events at the port attended by Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal.

According to the report, renewable energy now offsets nearly 94% of the port’s energy consumption equivalent, while carbon intensity per tonne of cargo has nearly halved during the same period.

“VOC Port is demonstrating what can be achieved when infrastructure development is guided by sustainability, innovation and community welfare. These achievements represent an important milestone in India’s journey towards greener and more responsible maritime growth,” Sonowal said.

Sustainability Report Highlights Decarbonisation Progress

The Sustainability Report outlines several environmental initiatives undertaken by the port, including increased renewable energy use, lower carbon emissions, and efforts to improve energy efficiency across operations.

VOC Port has also been recognised as a Scope-2 Emission Free Port, acknowledging its transition towards electricity sourced from cleaner energy and reduced indirect emissions associated with power consumption.

Green Hydrogen Transition Documented

During the event, Sonowal released a case study prepared by the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Calcutta titled The Hydrogen Pivot: Orchestrating the Green Transition at V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority.

The study documents the port’s transition towards sustainable operations, highlighting initiatives such as renewable energy integration, electrification of port equipment, and India’s first green hydrogen pilot project at a major port.

MoU Signed to Strengthen Maritime Research

VOC Port Authority also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya to collaborate on research, logistics education, innovation, skill development, and sustainable port management.

The partnership aims to establish a Centre of Excellence for Maritime Logistics and Port Management while promoting industry-academia collaboration and workforce development.

PortGPT Mobile Application Introduced

The Minister also launched the PortGPT mobile application, making VOC Port the first major port in India to introduce an enterprise-grade generative artificial intelligence platform through a dedicated mobile application.

According to the port authority, the application is expected to support operational efficiency, knowledge management, and data-driven decision-making.