13 February 2026 at 06:08 pm IST
V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority has achieved a major sustainability milestone by becoming India’s first major port to receive the IGBC Platinum rating while operating entirely on renewable energy. The recognition highlights the port’s transition towards low-carbon infrastructure and energy-efficient operations, positioning it as a national leader in green port development. The Platinum certification was awarded by the Indian Green Building Council for multiple administrative and operational buildings that meet advanced standards in energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, and indoor environmental quality. These facilities are designed to minimise environmental impact while supporting long-term operational resilience. In addition to IGBC recognition, the port has also secured certifications under the Bureau of Energy Efficiency’s Shunya and Shunya Plus frameworks, reinforcing its status as a near net-zero energy campus. Power requirements are met through a combination of on-site solar installations and renewable energy procurement, enabling the port to run 100% on green power. This achievement aligns with the Government of India’s broader maritime decarbonisation agenda under initiatives such as the Green Ports and Shipping Policy. VOC Port’s progress demonstrates how legacy port infrastructure can be successfully repurposed to support climate goals, reduce emissions, and set replicable sustainability benchmarks for other major ports across the country.
