Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurates green hydrogen pilot plant at VOC Port

By Admin

06 Sep, 2025

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, inaugurated a landmark initiative on Friday with the launch of a green hydrogen pilot plant at V O Chidambaranar (VOC) Port, Tamil Nadu. Alongside the inauguration, he also laid the foundation for several critical port development projects aimed at driving India’s maritime growth.

Green Hydrogen Pilot Plant: A Step Towards Clean Energy

The newly launched pilot plant, with a capacity of 750 m³, marks a significant step towards sustainable energy adoption in India’s maritime sector. By supporting the use of alternative fuels, this project aligns with the proposed Coastal Green Shipping Corridor between Kandla and Tuticorin. With this, VOC Port is set to become a key hub for green fuel bunkering, placing Tamil Nadu at the forefront of the green shipping revolution.

Boosting Coastal Development Under Sagarmala

Highlighting the transformative impact of the Sagarmala programme, Sonowal emphasized its role in empowering coastal communities. He noted the establishment of new fishing harbours at Koonthookal, Pompuhar, Sinamoton, and Mukaiyard, which are creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities. “Through Sagarmala, we are strengthening livelihoods and unlocking the economic potential of our coastal regions,” the Minister remarked.

Tamil Nadu: Emerging as a Maritime Innovation Hub

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India’s maritime strategy is undergoing a major transformation, with Tamil Nadu playing a vital role. Sonowal highlighted how maritime innovation and connectivity are redefining the state’s contribution to India’s growth story. “We are reclaiming India’s maritime legacy through commerce, connectivity, innovation and cooperation,” he said, underscoring Tamil Nadu’s rise as a hub for maritime innovation.

Driving Research and Innovation in Maritime Sector

Sonowal also appreciated the contributions of the National Technology Centre for Ports, Waterways and Coasts at IIT Chennai in providing engineering solutions to support the sector. He further noted the success of Chennai in hosting the “first-of-its-kind Maritime Hackathon – Marathon 2025,” designed to foster collaboration and innovation in maritime technology.

Towards a Sustainable Maritime Future

The inauguration of the green hydrogen pilot plant at VOC Port is more than a technological milestone it represents India’s commitment to a sustainable and self-reliant maritime future. With projects under Sagarmala and innovative initiatives driven by academia and industry collaboration, Tamil Nadu is poised to become a model for green and innovative port-led development.