VOC Port Readies India’s First Green Methanol Bunkering Hub

V.O. Chidambaranar Port (VOC Port) in Thoothukudi is set to commence commercial operations at India’s first dedicated green methanol bunkering hub by the end of November 2026. The facility, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 11 October 2026, represents a strategic move to capture a growing segment of the alternative marine-fuel market on the country’s east coast.

The installation features 1,500 cubic meters of storage capacity across two tanks, connected to the jetty via a 2.8-kilometer stainless-steel pipeline. With transfer pumps capable of moving 120 cubic meters per hour, the facility is designed to support the rapid refueling requirements of modern methanol-capable fleets. The project is funded by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy under the National Green Hydrogen Mission, with VOC Port serving as the system implementing agency.

Strategic Geographic Positioning

The facility’s significance lies in its proximity to the East–West international shipping route. According to port data, approximately 80% of cargo vessels traversing this corridor pass within 130 nautical miles of Thoothukudi. By positioning itself as a bunkering node on the Rotterdam–Tuticorin–Singapore corridor, VOC Port is attempting to capture demand from vessels that may not otherwise call at the port for cargo operations.

This development suggests a shift in how regional ports compete for international liner business. As major shipping lines expand their methanol-capable fleets, the availability of green fuel will become a primary factor in route optimization. By securing this infrastructure, VOC Port is moving beyond traditional cargo handling to become a critical energy waypoint, potentially forcing neighboring ports to accelerate their own alternative fuel strategies to remain competitive for transit-heavy traffic.

The port authority is currently finalizing safety and statutory requirements and has initiated an Expression of Interest process to appoint a dedicated bunkering operator. Commercial operations are expected to follow the completion of these final regulatory and operational clearances.

Source: India Shipping News