AVTL Announces Plans for India’s First Independent Ammonia Storage Terminal
AVTL, a joint venture between Aegis Logistics Limited and Vopak India, has revealed its intention to develop India’s inaugural independent ammonia storage terminal.
The brownfield project will be located in Pipavav, near the West coast of Gujarat, and is expected to have a storage capacity of approximately 36,000 metric tons. The terminal, deemed a third-party facility, is scheduled for completion by the end of 2026.
The total investment for this endeavor amounts to roughly €53 million (INR 5.3 billion), all of which will be funded by AVTL.
Once operational, the terminal will primarily handle ammonia imports for the fertilizer market. Additionally, the partners aim to explore the potential of ammonia as a carrier for hydrogen, aligning with their energy transition strategies.
AVTL officials have indicated that the terminal will also support green ammonia exports, contributing to India’s shift towards cleaner energy solutions and sustainable infrastructure.
India’s Green Ammonia Initiatives
While India is a significant ammonia producer globally, its foray into sustainable fuels like green ammonia is still in its early stages. The government, however, has outlined ambitious plans for decarbonization.
In May 2023, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways released the Harit Sagar Green Port guide, outlining objectives for developing infrastructure for green ammonia, green methanol, and green hydrogen bunkering. All major Indian ports are expected to have green hydrogen refueling facilities by 2035.
Recent developments in the green ammonia sector in India include a consortium of Japanese companies exploring investments in a green ammonia production plant. Furthermore, Hygenco Green Energie has begun construction on a green ammonia facility in Odisha, with plans for significant production capacity by 2028.
These initiatives underscore India’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions and signify a step towards a greener future.