Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) and the Captain of Ports Department (CoPD), Government of Goa, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore the introduction of LPG-powered outboard motor (OBM) boats in Goa, marking a significant step towards cleaner, economical and sustainable marine transportation.
The MoU was signed by Captain of Ports Goa, Octavio A. Rodrigues, on behalf of the Government of Goa, and Sashi Gupta, Chief Regional Manager, Goa LPG Regional Office, on behalf of HPCL. The signing ceremony was attended by Ports Minister Digambar Kamat and Srinivasa Nalli, Zonal Head – LPG, West Zone, HPCL, along with senior officials and other stakeholders.
Under the initiative, HPCL will promote HP Dolphin, its LPG-based marine fuel solution, through an LPG retrofit system that allows suitable existing petrol-powered outboard motors to operate on LPG without requiring engine replacement. The technology is expected to offer a cleaner and more economical alternative for traditional fishermen and tourist boat operators.
As part of the initiative, HPCL has conducted field trials of LPG-powered OBM boats at Canacona in South Goa in coordination with local fishermen. The trials demonstrated smooth engine operation and comparable performance. According to HPCL, the technology has the potential to reduce fuel costs by around 40%, depending on actual operating conditions, with a projected payback period of approximately three to four months.
The MoU provides a framework for cooperation in technical assessment, identification of eligible boats, pilot implementation, operator training, maintenance, after-sales support and performance monitoring, subject to applicable statutory approvals and safety requirements.
Speaking on the occasion, Ports Minister Digambar Kamat highlighted the importance of adopting innovative and cost-effective technologies to strengthen Goa’s maritime sector, support traditional fishing communities and promote sustainable tourism. He said the initiative aligns with the state’s vision for sustainable development and the Blue Economy.
Srinivasa Nalli, Zonal Head – LPG, West Zone, HPCL, reiterated the corporation’s commitment to developing innovative LPG solutions that combine economic benefits with environmental responsibility. He highlighted that HP Dolphin represents an important step towards extending cleaner fuel alternatives to the marine sector while supporting fishermen’s livelihoods and enhancing coastal sustainability.
The collaboration marks an important milestone in the efforts of HPCL and the Government of Goa to develop a cleaner, more economical and sustainable maritime ecosystem, empowering local communities and advancing the state’s Blue Economy.
