In a landmark achievement for sustainable maritime infrastructure, V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOC Port), Tuticorin has become the first Indian Major Port to secure the prestigious IGBC Platinum Rating, the highest certification awarded by the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC).
Image source: PIB, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways
The recognition highlights VOC Port’s commitment to green building practices, energy efficiency, and decarbonisation under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
Administration Building Sets Benchmark in Sustainability
The Port’s Administration Building has been developed in accordance with its Green Policy and comprehensive waste management plan. Key sustainability interventions include:
- Rooftop solar panels
- High Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) roof coating to mitigate the Urban Heat Island effect
- IoT-enabled water meters
- Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) monitoring systems
- Rainwater harvesting systems
- Water-efficient plumbing fixtures
These measures have resulted in a 37% reduction in potable water usage, with all wastewater treated through an on-site Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) and fully reused.
100% Renewable Energy Operations
In a significant step toward decarbonisation, the Administration Building operates entirely on renewable energy:
- 89% power generated on-site through solar energy
- 11% sourced from off-site renewable energy
This transition positions VOC Port as a frontrunner in clean energy adoption within India’s port ecosystem.
Shunya & Shunya Plus Certifications by BEE
Further strengthening its green credentials, VOC Port has also received Shunya and Shunya Plus Certifications from the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), Ministry of Power.
Under this certification framework:
- A Shunya (Net Zero Energy) Building produces as much energy as it consumes annually, with an Energy Performance Index (EPI) between 0–10 kWh/m²/year.
- A Shunya Plus (Net Positive Energy) Building generates more renewable energy than it consumes, with an EPI below 0 kWh/m²/year, enabling surplus energy export to the grid.
At VOC Port:
- The Hospital and CISF Barracks have received Shunya Plus Certification.
- The Administrative Building and Guest House have received Shunya Certification.
Inclusive and Green Campus Design
The Administration Building also prioritises occupant well-being and accessibility:
- No Smoking Policy
- Eco-friendly housekeeping chemicals
- Non-slippery ramps
- Differently-abled-friendly toilets
- Electric wheelchairs
- Lifts with Braille and audio assistance
The campus maintains over 70% green cover, supported by extensive tree plantation drives. Seven IGBC Accredited Professionals oversee sustainability implementation and continuous improvement measures.
Leadership Statement
Shri Susanta Kumar Purohit, IRSEE, Chairperson, VOC Port, stated that targeted building upgrades and policy interventions were undertaken to enhance environmental performance, energy efficiency, and occupant well-being. He noted that achieving both the IGBC Platinum Rating and BEE certification marks a proud milestone, making VOC Port the first Indian Major Port to attain this distinction. and Waterways
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