Assam expands industrial reach with major e-methanol project at Kandla
CM Himanta Biswa Sarma lays foundation for a major e-methanol plant at Kandla Port, boosting Assam's industrial footprint and India's green fuel goals.
In a significant move to bolster India's green energy landscape, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, alongside Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel and Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, laid the foundation stone for a massive e-methanol production project at Kandla, Gujarat, on Saturday. This ambitious initiative marks a major expansion of Assam's industrial influence beyond its borders, positioning the state as a key player in the national green economy.
The project is a collaborative venture between Assam Petro-Chemicals Limited (APCL) and the Deendayal Port Authority. With a massive investment of Rs 2,300 crore, the facility is designed to produce 150 tonnes per day (TPD) of e-methanol, making it one of the most significant e-methanol undertakings in the country.
Boosting Employment and Green Shipping
Beyond its environmental impact, the project is set to be a major economic driver. It is expected to generate more than 3,500 direct and indirect employment opportunities. Located at Kandla Port—a vital maritime hub on India's western coast—the facility aims to:
- Promote the adoption of green fuels within the shipping industry.
- Reduce the nation's heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels.
- Lower carbon emissions from maritime transport operations.
The e-methanol produced at the site is intended to serve as a sustainable marine fuel for ships departing from the port for international destinations, directly supporting India's transition to cleaner maritime logistics.
Assam's Legacy in Energy and Expertise
During the ceremony, Chief Minister Sarma highlighted Assam's long-standing history as a pioneer in India's energy sector. He noted that the state has been at the forefront of the oil and petroleum industry for over a century, citing the establishment of Asia’s first mechanically drilled oil well in Makum in 1867 and India’s first oil refinery in Digboi in 1901.
Sarma emphasized that Assam brings specialized expertise to this new green venture. "Assam continues to make an important contribution to the country’s oil and natural gas sector and also possesses considerable experience in methanol production," he stated. Currently, Assam Petro-Chemicals Limited at Namrup maintains a methanol production capacity of up to 500 tonnes per day, providing the technical foundation necessary for this new project in Gujarat.
Aligning with India's Net-Zero Vision
The Chief Minister linked the project to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s global commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070. He remarked that India is witnessing a powerful movement toward clean energy, with Gujarat leading the way in solar and green hydrogen initiatives.
Sarma expressed pride in Assam's acceptance of the partnership, noting that the invitation from Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal allowed the state to contribute to a landmark national green-fuel initiative. He concluded by expressing hope that similar green-fuel projects would eventually emerge at other major ports across India, further accelerating the country's journey toward sustainable transportation.