The SOPAN Group, in collaboration with VOC Port Authority (VOCPA), has commenced construction of India’s first Green Methanol Bunkering and Refueling Facility, marking a major step in sustainable maritime infrastructure. The foundation stone was laid by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal under the aegis of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, reinforcing India’s commitment to clean energy and decarbonization of ports.
The pilot-scale project, executed entirely by SOPAN as the EPC contractor, will feature a 750 m³ Green Methanol Storage & Bunkering Terminal along with complete plant infrastructure. Delivered through a comprehensive EPC model, the facility is designed to enable significant reduction of CO₂ emissions for ships and advance India’s Maritime Vision 2030 goals.
Shri Sonowal said, “This initiative represents a milestone in India’s green maritime journey. The launch of the nation’s first pilot-scale Green Methanol project underscores our commitment to sustainable port development and alternative fuels.”
Susanta Purohit, Chairperson of VOCPA, added, “Aligned with India’s Net Zero target for 2070, VOC Port is taking bold steps to advance its Green Port mission. Partnering with SOPAN Group allows us to set global benchmarks in sustainable port infrastructure.”
Aniruddha Kadvekar, Director, SOPAN Group, said, “By establishing India’s first dedicated Green Methanol Bunkering Hub, we aim to reduce up to 95% of CO₂ emissions from shipping operations. This project not only showcases India’s Make in India capabilities but also positions the country as a leader in the global alternative fuels market.”
The facility is expected to play a key role in reducing the carbon footprint of India’s shipping sector while supporting the nation’s broader energy transition and Net-Zero objectives. SOPAN Group is an Indian engineering and energy-solutions company that offers turnkey services in EPC (Engineering, Procurement, Construction), operation & maintenance, and equipment & systems manufacturing for the oil, gas, infrastructure, and clean energy sectors.
Headquartered in Pune, with manufacturing facilities in Gujarat and Maharashtra, the group works across upstream, midstream, downstream and emerging sectors like green hydrogen and bio-CNG.SOPAN is also committed to high standards of safety, quality, innovation, and sustainability, exemplified by its recent completion of India’s first green methanol bunkering facility at VOC Port.
