V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority Secures IGBC Platinum & Shunya Certifications for Sustainable Infrastructure

In a major boost to India’s green infrastructure push, V.O. Chidambaranar (VOC) Port Authority has become the first Major Port in India to receive the prestigious IGBC Platinum Rating, the highest certification awarded by the Indian Green Building Council. The recognition has been granted to the Port’s Administration Building for its outstanding performance in sustainability, energy efficiency, and eco-friendly infrastructure.

Sustainable Infrastructure and Green Measures

The Administration Building operates under a structured Green Policy and waste management plan. It is equipped with rooftop solar panels and a high Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) roof coating, which helps reduce the Urban Heat Island effect and improves overall energy efficiency.

To enhance resource conservation, the Port has implemented:

• IoT-enabled water meters
• Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) monitoring systems
• Rainwater harvesting systems
• Water-saving plumbing fixtures

These measures have resulted in a 37% reduction in potable water consumption. Additionally, all wastewater is treated through an on-site Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) and fully reused within the premises.

100% Renewable Energy Operation

In a significant step towards decarbonisation, the Administration Building now runs entirely on renewable energy.

• 89% electricity is generated through on-site solar power
• 11% electricity is sourced from off-site renewable energy

This transition reflects the Port’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting clean energy adoption.

Shunya and Shunya Plus Certifications

Apart from the IGBC Platinum Rating, VOC Port has also secured Shunya and Shunya Plus certifications from the Bureau of Energy Efficiency under the Ministry of Power.

• Shunya Certification signifies a Net Zero Energy Building, where annual energy consumption is fully met through renewable sources.
• Shunya Plus Certification denotes a Net Positive Energy Building, which generates more renewable energy than it consumes.

Under this certification framework:

• The Port Hospital and CISF Barracks received Shunya Plus Certification
• The Administrative Building and Guest House received Shunya Certification

Focus on Inclusivity and Occupant Well-being

The Port has also prioritised health, safety, and accessibility. The building follows a No Smoking Policy, uses eco-friendly housekeeping chemicals, and ensures universal accessibility through:

• Non-slippery ramps
• Differently-abled-friendly toilets
• Electric wheelchairs
• Braille-enabled lifts with audio assistance

The campus maintains over 70% green cover, supported by extensive plantation drives.

Alignment with National Vision

The initiative aligns with Maritime India Vision 2030 and Harit Sagar – Green Port Guidelines, reinforcing India’s push toward sustainable port-led development. With this dual achievement, VOC Port has set a new benchmark for energy-efficient and environmentally responsible port infrastructure in the country.

MCQs

1. V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority is located in which state?
(a) Kerala
(b) Tamil Nadu
(c) Andhra Pradesh
(d) Karnataka

2. The IGBC Platinum Rating is awarded by which organisation?
(a) Bureau of Energy Efficiency
(b) Indian Green Building Council
(c) NITI Aayog
(d) Ministry of Environment

3. Shunya Certification refers to which type of building?
(a) Carbon Neutral Building
(b) Net Zero Energy Building
(c) Smart Infrastructure Building
(d) Solar-Only Building

4. What percentage of electricity in the VOC Port Administration Building is generated on-site through solar power?
(a) 70%
(b) 75%
(c) 89%
(d) 100%

5. The sustainability initiatives of VOC Port are aligned with which national programme?
(a) Digital India
(b) Sagarmala Programme
(c) Maritime India Vision 2030
(d) Make in India