VO Chidambaranar Port Expands Capacity, Eyes Green Hydrogen Hub

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V O Chidambaranar Port in Tamil Nadu, India, has ambitious plans to become a Green Hydrogen-Ammonia hub. The port has allocated Rs 41,860 crore for investments to achieve this goal. Additionally, the port is expanding its capacity to handle the growing cargo volume, reports the Economic Times.

Enhancing Capacity

V O Chidambaranar Port has achieved a significant milestone in cargo handling, having moved 29.70 million tonnes of cargo, including 5.62 lakh TEUs of containers, up to December 19, 2024. This represents an overall growth of 1.87% and a 6.74% increase in container handling compared to the previous year.

To accommodate this growing cargo volume, the port has undertaken several strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing its capacity, improving operational efficiency, and expanding its market share within the region.

Green Hydrogen-Ammonia Hub

V O Chidambaranar Port is actively pursuing its vision of becoming India’s Green Hydrogen-Ammonia Hub. To this end, the port has allocated 501 acres of land to four firms for the establishment of green hydrogen and ammonia manufacturing and storage facilities, with a combined investment of Rs 41,860 crore.

The port is currently undertaking a pilot demonstration project to showcase the production, storage, and power generation capabilities of green hydrogen using fuel cells. This project is expected to be completed by January 2025.

Recognizing its strategic advantages, including its all-weather accessibility, prime location, efficient cargo handling, and strong connectivity, the port is poised to become a major gateway for South India. As part of its capacity enhancement efforts, the port has widened its entrance channel from 152.40 meters to 230 meters.

Furthermore, the port is set to execute a pilot bunkering project to demonstrate the feasibility and practicality of bunkering and refueling operations for green hydrogen and its derivatives.

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Source: The Economic Times