NTPC Green Energy (NGEL), a subsidiary of NTPC, India’s leading integrated power producer, has inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, popularly known as Kolkata Port. This MoU marks the establishment of a green hydrogen hub at the Kolkata port, a transformative initiative that holds the promise of revolutionizing India’s maritime and port operations.
This announcement follows closely on the heels of NTPC’s collaboration with the V.O Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOCPA) earlier this month to develop a green hydrogen hub at VOCPA in Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu. These strategic partnerships underscore NTPC’s commitment to driving the adoption of green hydrogen across India’s key port facilities.
India’s National Hydrogen Mission recognizes the pivotal role that shipping and port operations will play in shaping the future demand and trade of green hydrogen. Maritime transport and ports are seen as sectors with immense potential for decarbonization through the utilization of green hydrogen and its derivatives, such as green ammonia and green methanol, as fuels for propulsion and various operations.
Under the National Hydrogen Mission, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW) is slated to play a central role in laying the groundwork for India’s export capabilities in the green hydrogen sector. This includes the development of essential infrastructure, encompassing storage bunkers, port operation equipment, and refueling facilities. The Ministry is also poised to lead the charge in advocating the use of hydrogen and its derivatives, such as ammonia and methanol, as propulsion fuels for ships. Furthermore, it aims to establish India as a prominent hub for refueling green hydrogen and its derivatives.
NTPC, India’s largest power utility, boasts a total installed capacity of over 73 gigawatts (GW). The company’s commitment to sustainability is reflected through its wholly-owned subsidiary, NGEL, which is spearheading renewable energy capacity expansion, including green hydrogen and energy storage projects.
The NTPC Group has set an ambitious target of achieving 60 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2032. To date, it has successfully installed 3.2 GW, with an impressive pipeline of over 20 GW in renewable energy projects. This remarkable dedication to clean energy showcases NTPC’s determination to be at the forefront of India’s transition to a greener and more sustainable energy landscape.
The establishment of a green hydrogen hub at Kolkata Port holds the potential to be a game-changer for India’s maritime sector. Green hydrogen, known for its environmental sustainability, has the capacity to revolutionize the way ships and port equipment are powered. By replacing conventional fossil fuels with green hydrogen and its derivatives, India can significantly reduce emissions from maritime operations.
The strategic partnership between NGEL and Kolkata Port signifies a concerted effort to decarbonize port operations, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and contribute to India’s overall climate goals. Additionally, this initiative aligns with the global trend toward sustainable shipping practices and underscores India’s commitment to cleaner and more efficient port operations.
