India plans to convert all its coastal and inland waterways shipping to renewable energy by 2026. The move is part of India’s efforts to boost its renewable energy share and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the shipping industry

India’s shipping sector is poised for a significant shift towards renewable energy sources, with ambitions to transition its entire coastal and inland waterways shipping operations within the next five years. The announcement was made by the shipping secretary on Thursday, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s broader vision of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2070.

Presently, India’s major ports rely on renewable energy for less than 10 per cent  of their operations, as per government estimates. In a bid to bolster domestic capacity and reduce dependence on foreign fleets, the country plans to augment its current fleet of around 1,500 boats with approximately 5,000 new vessels over the next decade.

Highlighting recent strides, last month saw the inauguration of India’s first domestically manufactured hydrogen-run ferry by Prime Minister Modi. Additionally, Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers, a prominent warship manufacturer, has unveiled plans to develop eco-friendly vessels leveraging solar power and battery technologies.

In line with global sustainability targets, the organization aims to slash greenhouse gas emissions from ships by 50% compared to 2008 levels by 2050. Complementing these efforts, the Indian government is set to establish a Maritime Development Fund aimed at fostering the production of environmentally friendly vessels and enhancing port infrastructure, thereby revitalizing the nation’s shipping industry.