APMT Mumbai transitions to 80 per cent renewable electricity

APM Terminals (APMT) Mumbai has transitioned to 80 per cent renewable electricity this month by commissioning a 10.65 megawatts (MW) captive solar power plant.

This solar power plant was reportedly commissioned under a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with O2 Power.

This recent move to renewable electricity marks a big step forward in APM Terminals Mumbai’s transformation to a container port powered by renewable energy.

According to APMT Mumbai, the captive solar project would generate more than 21 GWh of electricity per year, which will be used to operate the terminal’s quay cranes and reefers.

A captive solar power plant is one that a firm has installed for its own use rather than using existing renewable electricity from the grid.

According to Reuters, India’s reliance on high-emission coal-fired energy generation increased to 80 per cent in January 2024 to satisfy surging demand.

APMT Mumbai’s CO2 equivalent emissions will be decreased by more than 15,000 tonnes per year, representing a 41 per cent reduction in carbon emissions.

In addition, Gateway Terminals India (GTI) will reportedly sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authorities (JNPA) to begin the construction of Shore Power for vessels stopping at GTI.

Unmesh Sharad Wagh, IRS, Chairman, JNPA, said: “The implementation of solar power at GTI is a transformative step, delivering a substantial total capacity of 10.65MWp. This strategic initiative is projected to significantly cut down pollution.

“This aligns with our vision of making all our terminals green in the next two years, emphasising the use of renewable energy for a sustainable logistics supply chain and operational excellence. By spearheading this transition, JNPA once again solidifies its role as an innovator and leader in the port and maritime industry.”

Sunay Mukerjee, COO at APMT Mumbai, said: “At APMT Mumbai, we are integrating our global decarbonisation ambitions with Government of India’s Harit Sagar guidelines and ambitious targets outlined by JNPA in the ever-growing renewable energy segment. We are glad to partner with O2 Power to lift the standard of decarbonisation across our industry.”

In March, APMT Callao announced it is reportedly on pace to reduce emissions by 36 per cent in 2024, 55 per cent in 2030, and 100 per cent by 2040.