India-Cyprus Talks Explore Green Energy Corridor to Europe

Could clean fuel made in India one day power ships sailing through Cyprus? That idea was on the table when India's High Commissioner Mr Manish met a delegation from Avaada Group, an Indian renewable energy company.

The delegation was led by Mr Prashant Choubey, who heads Avaada's green hydrogen and ammonia business and new initiatives. The company makes solar panels, runs renewable power projects and is building up a business in green hydrogen and fuels derived from it.

What was discussed

Matching strengths: India's fast-growing capacity in renewables and green fuels, alongside Cyprus's established shipping industry and its location between Europe and Asia.
The India–EU angle: the discussions were framed around the India–EU free trade agreement (FTA), which could open new routes for trade and investment.
Next steps: Mr Manish suggested that Avaada send a team to the island to meet local energy and shipping players. The aim is to spot opportunities over the next few years, possibly even a 'green energy corridor' running from India to Europe by way of Cyprus.

What is 'green shipping'?

Most ships still run on heavy fossil fuels. The industry is now under pressure to cut emissions, and one option is fuel made using renewable electricity, such as green hydrogen and green ammonia. Countries that can produce these fuels cheaply, and ports that can supply them, stand to gain.

What this means for you

Limassol is one of Europe's major ship-management centres, and many Indians in Cyprus work in shipping, as seafarers, engineers, technical superintendents or office staff. If green fuels take off, skills in new fuel handling, safety and emissions rules will be in demand. For anyone in the industry, it's a good moment to look at training in alternative fuels and decarbonisation.

This was an exploratory meeting; no agreement has been announced so far.

Source: High Commission of India in Cyprus (@indiacyprus) on Instagram