The Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) has signed a landmark contract with Mazagon Dock for a 3,000 DWT Methanol Dual-Fuel Diesel Electric PSV. This first-of-its-kind Indian green vessel supports the Maritime India Vision 2030 and the National Green Hydrogen Mission. The project signals a major shift toward methanol bunkering and low-carbon propulsion in India’s offshore sector.
Mumbai, India | March 18, 2026 – In a major step toward decarbonizing the nation’s offshore sector, The Shipping Corporation of India Ltd. (SCI) has officially signed a contract with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) for the construction of a state-of-the-art 3,000 DWT Methanol Dual-Fuel Diesel Electric Platform Supply Vessel (PSV).
The contract marks the commissioning of a first-of-its-kind vessel in India, aligning the country’s maritime infrastructure with global net-zero commitments and the National Green Hydrogen Mission.
The Technical Edge: Methanol-Diesel Electric Propulsion
The newbuild PSV represents a shift away from traditional heavy fuel oils in the offshore supply segment. By utilizing a Methanol Dual-Fuel Diesel Electric system, the vessel offers:
- Lower Emissions: Significant reductions in SOx, NOx, and particulate matter compared to conventional diesel-only PSVs.
- Operational Flexibility: The diesel-electric configuration allows for optimized engine loads, further reducing fuel “burn” during dynamic positioning (DP) operations near offshore rigs.
- Indigenous Innovation: The project reinforces India’s thrust on “Make in India” shipbuilding, positioning MDL as a leader in high-tech, green vessel construction.
Strategic Vision: Maritime India 2030 & 2047
The project is more than just a single vessel order; it is a cornerstone of India’s long-term maritime strategy. SCI noted that the vessel advances the goals set out under:
- Maritime India Vision 2030: Aiming to enhance the global competitiveness of the Indian shipping fleet.
- Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047: A roadmap for a sustainable and carbon-neutral maritime sector by the centenary of India’s independence.
- National Green Hydrogen Mission: Supporting the broader ecosystem for alternative fuels like methanol and hydrogen.
“This first-of-its-kind green vessel marks a significant step towards a low-carbon maritime future, aligning with the nation’s Net Zero commitments and reinforcing the nation’s thrust on indigenous shipbuilding.” Statement from The Shipping Corporation of India Ltd.
Market Implications for Maritime
For the Indian bunkering market, this order signals the beginning of methanol bunkering infrastructure requirements at major offshore hubs. As SCI, India’s largest shipping company, moves into dual-fuel methanol, other domestic owners are expected to follow, creating a localized demand for methanol as a marine fuel.
The Shipping Corporation of India (SCI)
Established in 1961 through the amalgamation of the Eastern and Western Shipping Corporations, The Shipping Corporation of India Ltd (SCI) has evolved from a marginal liner company into India’s premier maritime powerhouse. As a Government of India “Navratna” enterprise, SCI owns and operates approximately one-third of the nation’s total tonnage, managing a diverse and modern fleet that includes bulk carriers, crude and product tankers, container vessels, and specialized LPG/offshore supply ships.
SCI is the only Indian carrier providing a full spectrum of services, from break-bulk to LNG transportation, serving as a critical energy lifeline by ensuring the uninterrupted flow of crude oil to the national economy. With a record of 18 consecutive “Excellent” ratings under Government MoUs, SCI combines commercial profitability with social commitment, leveraging a world-class workforce to drive India’s Maritime Vision 2030 and beyond.
Source: The Shipping Corporation of India