Powering a Cleaner Future: Kamarajar Port Leads India's Green Shipping Revolution with Shore Power

In a bold move towards environmental stewardship, Kamarajar Port, also known as Ennore Port, is spearheading India's green shipping revolution by intensifying its efforts to promote the usage of its state-of-the-art Shore Power Supply (SPS) facility. This initiative is a critical step in drastically reducing emissions from ships docked at the port, aligning with global mandates for cleaner maritime operations.

Globally, ports are transforming into hubs of sustainable energy, and Kamarajar Port is at the forefront of this transition in India.

The port has already invested in and established a fully functional Shore Power Supply system at its Liquid Terminal. This innovative technology allows vessels to switch off their polluting diesel auxiliary engines while berthed and instead plug into the port's electrical grid, drawing clean power directly from the shore.

The benefits of adopting SPS are multifaceted and profound.

Environmentally, it leads to a significant reduction in air pollutants such as Carbon Dioxide (CO2), Nitrogen Oxides (NOx), Sulphur Oxides (SOx), and Particulate Matter (PM), which are major contributors to air pollution and climate change. Beyond air quality, SPS also dramatically lowers noise pollution, creating a quieter, healthier environment for port workers and the surrounding communities.

For shipping lines, embracing shore power translates into substantial fuel savings, as they no longer need to run their expensive and inefficient onboard generators.

Despite the operational facility being in place, its adoption rate by visiting vessels has been historically low. Recognizing this challenge, Kamarajar Port has launched a vigorous campaign to educate and encourage stakeholders.

They are actively engaging with shipping lines, their agents, and terminal operators to highlight the compelling advantages of SPS. Crucially, the port is also offering attractive incentives, including a significantly discounted tariff for the electricity supplied, making the green option economically appealing.

The push for shore power is not just a voluntary initiative but is rapidly becoming a global standard.

Reflecting this, the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping) has issued a circular mandating the use of shore power for all compliant vessels at Indian major ports from 2030 onwards. This future directive underscores the urgency and importance of the port's current drive to build awareness and integrate SPS into routine operations well in advance.

Looking ahead, Kamarajar Port has ambitious plans for expansion.

Phase II of the project envisions extending the Shore Power Supply facilities to its Coal and Container terminals, further amplifying its environmental impact. This expansion is likely to receive significant financial backing from the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, demonstrating a national commitment to decarbonizing the maritime sector.

Kamarajar Port's dedication to promoting shore power is a testament to its vision of becoming a truly green port.

By embracing such pioneering initiatives, it is not only contributing to India’s Net Zero Emission targets but also setting a powerful precedent for sustainable port management across the nation, paving the way for a cleaner, healthier future for all.