New Delhi: Deendayal Port Authority has advanced its methanol bunkering capabilities, marking a significant step towards decarbonising the maritime sector and positioning India as a key player in emerging green shipping corridors.
The development aligns with the global maritime industry’s target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with a focus on adopting low-carbon fuels such as e-methanol and e-ammonia to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
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Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said the initiative underscores India’s commitment to sustainable maritime growth under the leadership of Narendra Modi. He noted that the move would enhance efficiency, competitiveness and support India’s ambition to emerge as a leading maritime nation.
Kandla Port, located on India’s western coast, already handles grey methanol and has compatible infrastructure, including storage tanks, pipelines and jetties. Building on this, the port is now developing dedicated methanol bunkering infrastructure.
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To assess its preparedness, the port engaged DNV Maritime Advisory Services, which rated it at Level 6 on the International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH) Port Readiness Level scale for methanol bunkering.
On April 2, 2026, the port successfully conducted a trial shore-to-ship methanol bunkering operation in collaboration with industry partners, including Stolt Tankers, J M Baxi, Aegis Vopak and Indian Oil Corporation Limited. The trial validated bunker transfer processes, safety systems and regulatory compliance, with on-site verification confirming alignment with global best practices.
Looking ahead, the port aims to ensure availability of around 500 KTPA of Renewable Fuels of Non-Biological Origin (RFNBO)-compliant e-methanol by 2028–29 to support deep-sea dual-fuel vessels, particularly along the Asia–Europe trade corridor.
Following the successful trial, Kandla Port plans to undertake ship-to-ship methanol bunkering in the next phase, further strengthening its operational capabilities and contributing to the development of a cleaner and future-ready maritime ecosystem.
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