V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority in Thoothukudi (erstwhile Tuticorin) became the first Major Port in India to bag the coveted IGBC Platinum rating for its administration building, marking a major milestone in green infrastructure for the maritime sector.
The port also secured top-tier energy certifications from the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), cementing its status as a national benchmark for sustainable and energy-efficient port campuses, the shipping ministry announced.
First major port with IGBC Platinum
The Indian Green Building Council’s Platinum rating is its highest certification, and VOC Port’s administration building is the first among India’s major ports to receive it.
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The structure was designed around a clear green policy, with rooftop solar panels, a high Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) roof to cut the “urban heat island” effect, and IoT-enabled systems to monitor and optimise resource use.
The building achieved a 37 per cent reduction in potable water consumption through rainwater harvesting, water-efficient plumbing and full reuse of treated wastewater from an on-site Sewage Treatment Plant.
Indoor Air Quality monitoring, combined with a strict no-smoking policy and eco-friendly housekeeping chemicals, aims to ensure a healthier environment for staff.
Net-zero and net-positive energy buildings
VOC Port also earned Shunya and Shunya Plus certifications from BEE under the Ministry of Power. Shunya-certified buildings are net zero energy structures whose annual energy demand is fully met through renewable sources, with an Energy Performance Index (EPI) of 0–10 kWh/m²/year.
Under this framework, the port’s Administration Building and Guest House were recognised as Shunya (net zero), while the Hospital and CISF Barracks were awarded Shunya Plus status as net positive energy buildings that generate more green energy than they consume, with surplus power exportable to the grid.
The administration building itself runs entirely on renewable energy, with 89 per cent of its electricity generated on-site via solar and the balance 11 per cent purchased as off-site green power.
Inclusive, climate-conscious campus
The port has also focused on inclusivity and accessibility, installing non-slippery ramps, DAP-friendly toilets, electric wheelchairs and lifts with braille and audio support to assist senior citizens and persons with disabilities. A seven-member team of IGBC Accredited Professionals oversees ongoing improvements, while more than 70 per cent of the campus is under green cover thanks to extensive tree planting.
Chairperson Susanta Kumar Purohit called the dual recognition a proud milestone that reflects targeted upgrades in energy performance, environmental standards and occupant well-being.