The V.O. Chidambaranar Port (VOC Port) in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, has strengthened its status as India’s leading hub for the export of windmill components, playing a vital role in the country’s growing renewable energy supply chain.
According to recent data from the VOC Port Authority, the port has recorded a significant rise in handling over-dimensional cargo. Between April and August of the current financial year (2025–26), it managed 1,158 windmill blades—marking a 5% increase compared to 1,099 blades during the same period in 2024–25.
This builds on last year’s impressive growth, when the port handled 1,869 blades by December, reflecting a 40% jump from 2023. A major milestone came in August when the port achieved a record export of 101 windmill blades in a single shipment for Vestas, destined for the United States—surpassing its previous record of 75 blades.
The port’s success is supported by its advanced infrastructure, including a 100,000-square-metre storage facility for oversized cargo, efficient handling systems, and smooth road connectivity that allows easy movement of massive blades, some exceeding 59 metres in length.
VOC Port Chairperson Susanta Kumar Purohit, IRSEE, praised the operational efficiency, noting that the port continues to strengthen its reputation as the “preferred hub” for exporting renewable energy technology. The exported blades, manufactured in industrial centres such as Bengaluru, Trichy, and Chennai, are shipped to destinations including the United States, Turkey, Australia, and several European nations—reinforcing VOC Port’s role in advancing India’s position in the global renewable energy sector.
As the global focus on climate action intensifies, VOC Port’s growth not only boosts India’s export performance—with wind component shipments valued in thousands of crore rupees annually—but also highlights Tamil Nadu’s transformation from traditional trade to high-tech renewable industries. Future plans include expanding rail connectivity and integrating green hydrogen facilities, positioning the port as a key player in India’s clean energy journey. With global wind energy installations expected to double by 2030, VOC Port is well-placed to seize the opportunity.
The port is preparing to showcase these achievements at the upcoming India Maritime Week (IMW) 2025, to be held in Mumbai from October 27 to 31. As a flagship event of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, IMW will serve as a platform for the port to present its accomplishments to international stakeholders and investors from over 100 countries.
Port officials expressed confidence in attracting significant investment, with Chairperson Purohit expecting proposals worth ₹1 lakh crore for capacity expansion and green energy projects. The port’s achievements in windmill blade handling will be a key highlight, underscoring its pivotal role in advancing India’s transition to a sustainable maritime economy and in establishing the country as a global manufacturing and export hub for renewable energy components.
