India's First Major Port Achieves Platinum Green Rating

A major port in India just proved that heavy industry and environmental excellence can work hand in hand.

V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority earned the IGBC Platinum Rating, the highest honor from the Indian Green Building Council for sustainable infrastructure. No other major port in India has achieved this distinction.

The port's administrative building showcases what modern green design looks like in action. Solar panels blanket the rooftop while special reflective coating helps cool the surrounding area and cut energy costs. Smart water meters and rainwater harvesting systems have reduced drinking water use by more than a third.

Every drop of wastewater gets treated onsite and reused. The building generates 89% of its electricity from solar power right on the property, with the remaining 11% coming from other renewable sources nearby.

The port didn't stop at environmental wins. Braille-equipped elevators, electric wheelchairs, accessible ramps, and specially designed restrooms ensure everyone can navigate the building with dignity. Seven certified green building professionals work fulltime to maintain and improve these sustainability practices.

The Ripple Effect

The certification arrived alongside another major achievement. The Bureau of Energy Efficiency awarded the port both Shunya and Shunya Plus certifications, recognizing buildings that produce as much clean energy as they consume or even generate surplus power for the grid.

The port's hospital and security barracks now create more renewable energy than they use, feeding excess electricity back to the local power supply. The administrative building and guest house hit net zero, perfectly balancing their energy needs with clean production.

Trees cover more than 70% of the port campus, creating green space in an industrial setting. This combination of renewable energy, water conservation, and thoughtful design sets a new standard for ports across the country.

Chairperson Susanta Kumar Purohit called the dual recognition a proud milestone that demonstrates how India's shipping infrastructure can lead on climate action. Other major ports now have a working model to follow, proving that shipping facilities can operate sustainably without sacrificing functionality.