Sri Lanka looks to green hydrogen production

This ambitious effort aligns with global green energy goals and positions the port as a leader in alternative fuels adoption.

Speaking at the Colombo International Maritime & Logistics Conference 2024, SLPA Managing Director Eng. Ganaka Hemachandra highlighted the urgency of reducing greenhouse gas emissions across port operations, noting that the port consumes 25% of Colombo’s total energy usage, equivalent to nearly 50 MW.

“It is crucial to implement immediate measures addressing greenhouse gas emissions in port-related activities,” he stated.

“With only 42% of Sri Lanka’s energy generated from green sources, the transition to green hydrogen and renewable energy is imperative for sustainability and global competitiveness.”

Clean energy focus

The Port of Colombo is adopting cutting-edge technologies, including green robotics and AI, to integrate clean energy into operations.

Its East Container Terminal (ECT), set to become the port’s first semi-automated terminal by 2025, will feature green energy systems and provide shore power for vessels.

Eng. Hemachandra added that these efforts would establish Colombo as a future green energy refueling hub, addressing both current energy demands and long-term environmental goals.

The conference emphasised the need for sustainable solutions in ports and shipping, attracting investments and fostering innovation to meet International Maritime Organization (IMO) 2030–2050 targets.