Kandla Port in Gujarat has advanced its methanol bunkering capabilities, positioning itself as a key player in India's transition towards sustainable maritime operations.
On 2 April, Kandla Port successfully conducted a trial shore-to-ship methanol bunkering operation to validate infrastructure and operational protocols.
The trial
The demonstration was conducted in collaboration with companies including STOLT Tankers, JM Baxi Group, Aegis Vopak Terminals and Indian Oil Corporation, with technical validation by DNV.
Located on India's western coast, Kandla Port has long handled grey methanol as cargo and already possesses compatible infrastructure, including tank storage, pipelines and jetties.
To assess readiness for methanol bunkering operations, Kandla Port engaged DNV Maritime Advisory Services to evaluate existing infrastructure and the adequacy of regulatory and safety frameworks.
Following the assessment, the port was rated at Level 6 on the International Association of Ports and Harbours (IAPH) Port Readiness Level (PRL) scale for methanol bunkering.
The initiative aligns with the maritime sector's goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and focuses on adopting low-carbon alternative fuels such as e-methanol and e-ammonia.
The port is now working toward ensuring the availability of approximately 500 KTPA of Renewable Fuels of Non-Biological Origin (RFNBO)-compliant e-methanol by 2028-29, with this supply expected to support deep-sea, dual-fuel vessels operating along the Asia-Europe trade corridor.
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal described the development as India's resolve to lead the global transition towards green shipping.
Initiatives like methanol bunkering not only reduce emissions but also open new opportunities for investment, technology collaboration and job creation, reinforcing India's meaningful contribution to the emerging global maritime sector.
Following the successful shore-to-ship trial, Kandla Port plans to undertake ship-to-ship methanol bunkering in the next phase, further strengthening its operational capabilities.
The port's progress is expected to play a critical role in establishing India as a key hub in emerging green shipping corridors, contributing to a cleaner and more resilient maritime ecosystem.
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