VOC Port Becomes India’s First IGBC Platinum Major Port, Running on 100% Renewable Energy

V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOC Port) has become India’s first Major Port to receive the prestigious IGBC Platinum Rating, the highest certification awarded by the Indian Green Building Council, marking a significant milestone in sustainable port infrastructure.

The Port Administration Building has been developed in line with VOC Port’s Green Policy and waste management initiatives. Equipped with rooftop solar panels and a high Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) roof coating, the building reduces the Urban Heat Island effect and enhances energy efficiency. Resource efficiency measures include IoT-enabled water meters, Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) monitoring systems, rainwater harvesting, and water-saving plumbing fixtures, achieving a 37% reduction in potable water usage. All wastewater is treated in an on-site Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) and fully reused.

In a major step toward decarbonization, the Administration Building operates on 100% renewable energy, with 89% of electricity generated on-site via solar power and the remaining 11% sourced from off-site renewable energy.

VOC Port has also prioritized occupant health, safety, and inclusivity. The building follows a No Smoking Policy, uses eco-friendly cleaning chemicals, and is equipped with non-slippery ramps, differently-abled-friendly toilets, electric wheelchairs, and lifts with braille and audio assistance, ensuring accessibility for senior citizens and persons with disabilities. Over 70% of the campus is green cover, supported by extensive tree plantation, with sustainability practices overseen by seven IGBC Accredited Professionals.

Further strengthening its green credentials, VOC Port has been awarded Shunya and Shunya Plus certifications by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) under the Ministry of Power. The Shunya Certification designates a building as Net Zero Energy, producing as much energy as it consumes annually, while Shunya Plus Certification recognizes Net Positive Energy buildings that generate surplus energy for the grid. Under this framework, VOC Port’s Hospital and CISF Barracks have earned Shunya Plus certification, and the Administrative Building and Guest House have received Shunya certification.

Aligned with Maritime India Vision 2030 and Harit Sagar – Green Port Guidelines, VOC Port has been implementing multiple green initiatives to enhance energy efficiency and sustainable growth.

Shri Susanta Kumar Purohit, IRSEE, Chairperson, VOC Port, stated, “Achieving the IGBC Platinum Rating, alongside BEE certification, is a proud milestone for VOC Port. This project involved targeted building upgrades and policy measures to enhance environmental performance, energy efficiency, and occupant well-being. It sets a benchmark for sustainable port infrastructure in India.”

This dual recognition underscores VOC Port’s leadership in inclusive and sustainable growth, positioning it as a model for energy-efficient and eco-friendly port development nationwide.