SCI and Mazagon Dock Sign Contract for India’s First Green Methanol-Powered Vessel
Mumbai, March 18, 2026 – The Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) has taken a major step toward sustainable shipping by signing a shipbuilding contract with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL) for the construction of a 3000 DWT Methanol Dual Fuel Platform Supply Vessel (PSV). The contract was executed today at 1:15 PM IST and marks the first time SCI will integrate Green Methanol propulsion technology into its fleet.
This initiative is part of SCI’s commitment to eco-friendly maritime operations and aligns with the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM), India’s program to promote clean fuel alternatives in strategic sectors, including shipping.
What Makes This Vessel Special
The 3000 DWT PSV will be a dual-fuel vessel, capable of operating on both conventional fuel and Green Methanol, a sustainable alternative that significantly reduces carbon emissions and other pollutants. This step represents SCI’s first green methanol-powered vessel and sets a new benchmark in India’s maritime industry.
Green Methanol is considered a promising fuel for ships globally because it is carbon-neutral and compatible with existing engine technology, allowing operators to reduce emissions without compromising performance.
Strategic Significance
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Builder: Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL)
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Vessel Type: Platform Supply Vessel (PSV)
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Deadweight: 3000 DWT
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Fuel Technology: Dual-fuel Green Methanol
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Contract Date: March 18, 2026
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Objective: First vessel in SCI fleet operating on Green Methanol
Swapnita Vikas Yadav, Company Secretary and Compliance Officer at SCI, confirmed that the vessel is part of the company’s green shipping strategy. “This initiative will help SCI reduce its environmental footprint while modernizing its fleet to meet future sustainability standards,” she said.
Green Shipping in India
The contract supports India’s broader National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM), which encourages adoption of sustainable fuel technologies in industrial and transport sectors. By introducing methanol-powered vessels, SCI aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions, improve operational efficiency, and position India as a leader in green maritime technology.
The vessel will serve offshore platforms and supply chain operations, helping SCI modernize its fleet while reducing reliance on conventional marine fuels. In addition, this move is expected to enhance productivity for offshore logistics and strengthen compliance with international environmental standards.
SCI’s Commitment to Sustainability
SCI has consistently focused on innovative solutions to reduce emissions and enhance energy efficiency across its fleet. The new methanol-powered PSV is part of a long-term vision to expand green shipping capabilities in India, reflecting the global trend of transitioning to low-emission maritime transport.
By adopting this dual-fuel technology, SCI is taking proactive steps to meet environmental goals, reduce operational costs over time, and support India’s climate commitments under international maritime protocols.
Conclusion
The contract with MDL for the 3000 DWT Methanol Dual Fuel PSV marks a historic milestone in India’s shipping sector. It demonstrates SCI’s commitment to green innovation, operational excellence, and sustainable growth, positioning the company at the forefront of eco-friendly shipping in the region.