In her 17+ years at L&T, Hema Gopalan has dabbled in various projects like Asset Management Systems, Insurance Management Systems, Forecast Management Systems, and EIP 2010, to name a few, most of which have been ‘mega’ in nature, lasting about a year each, executed with a team of 4. She is elated at her role in developing the IEDP platform for solar PV projects, involving 30 automated engineering calculation modules, 47 drawing generation scripts, and optimizer engines to perform iterative design analysis. “By leveraging Robotic Process Automation (RPA) technology, we aim to automate the repetitive tasks involved in simulations using various third-party software, to reduce time and resources required for each iteration,” she expands.
By developing the core components of the platform using web technologies, integration services, and AI algorithms, Hema and her team are achieving flexibility, scalability, and maintainability. “By systematically scrutinizing various design solutions, the EBV Optimizer Tool helps select the most optimal configuration to meet the technical requirements of the project,” she remarks.
Handling external dependencies, addressing disruptions in resource continuity, and seamlessly coordinating between 8 stakeholder teams are some of Hema’s challenges, which she overcomes with ease thanks to her work ethic. “Appropriate training sessions at regular intervals will go a long way to stay abreast of cutting-edge technologies,” she opines, adding that Generative AI can truly revolutionize productivity by enhancing efficiency, improving design quality, optimizing resource use, and reducing costs.
Grateful to her seniors for their support and mentorship, Hema is particularly thankful for their understanding of the difficulties of a female employee. “They do not make me feel left out at any point; I am really blessed to have such seniors and wish to continue my association with them for long,” She flashes a quick smile.
Hema is a native of Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, and her husband, Srikrishnan, is a Senior Technician (Mechanical) at the Integral Coach Factory, while her son, Smruthi Keerthan, has completed his MBA and is a Junior Branch Manager in Federal Bank. Hema loves going to temples. “My virtue is being pious,” she notes, “and I make it a point to visit temples whenever I can.”
Her first EDP session at Lonavala and interacting with T Madhava Das at the DEI Connect are some of Hema’s most memorable moments at L&T. “More recently, securing the 1st Runner-Up in the ‘Service’ category at the Pi-Awards 2024 for IEDP was another special moment,” she grins, signing off.
With considerable experience in the Renewables space such as the 230 MW Solar Plant in Ettayapuram; 20 MW Floating Solar Plant in Auraiya; 20 MW Solar + 20 MWh BESS and 100 MW Solar for NLC; 100 MW Solar for Softbank; and more, Kumaran Senkali is currently leading the team for civil & structure at the DEWA VI Project, UAE, where a 1,800 MW Solar PV Plant fast-track project is being executed.
For GW-scale solar plants, 10,000+ acres of land need to be graded where around 1 million tracker foundations must be installed. “Managing multiple GW projects simultaneously with conventional Excel templates is extremely challenging,” Kumaran shares. “To address this, we developed a web-based ‘Digital Automation Tool for Grading & Profiling Tracker Structures’, featuring an integrated Python optimizer and ArcGIS Enterprise. This has been integrated into the IEDP platform, where it performs multiple iterative processes and generates optimized solutions with minimal manual intervention. Thanks to this automation tool, 14 days of grading & foundation marking drawings for a typical 100 MW plant was reduced to a mere 3 days!
Kumaran has won 4 PT&D EDRC Innovation Awards in Engineering and Digital Solutions. “In 2021–22, we were Winners for our ‘Module mounting structure and foundation design optimizer tool using Machine Learning,” he says proudly, mentioning being Runners-Up in 2020–21 for the ‘Contour following module mounting structure (CFS) – with zero land grading’ tool for the NLC Project in Andaman. “That’s a special one, as we received a surprise Appreciation Letter from SNS Sir for the successful inauguration of the project by the Prime Minister,” he shares with a wide smile.
Speaking of technical complexities when developing digital tools, Kumaran appreciates the tech might of LTIMindtree. “Their support has been crucial for us while integrating multiple software into the Optimizer Tools,” he notes gratefully. He adds that the team prioritized tasks and focused on high-impact activities, reallocating resources where they were most needed, seeking additional support wherever required.
“New technologies may not integrate well with existing systems, leading to inefficiencies,” Kumaran observes wisely. “We need to work on customizing or developing interfaces that facilitate smooth interaction between old and new systems.” He would like to work on design for mechanization in Renewables. “It will improve modularity of design and ergonomics, help us execute faster and complete projects quicker.”
Kumaran is a native of Harur in Dharmapuri district, Tamil Nadu, and enjoys playing badminton and cooking. He is married to Padmapriya, a homemaker, and they are blessed with two sons, Pranav and Srinav.
L&T inspires Anand Arokiasamy to push his own boundaries at work. “L&T pushes boundaries in engineering, technology, and infrastructure to deliver projects that not only meet but often exceed global standards and the company’s dedication to quality, strong emphasis on ethical practices and sustainability, creates a work environment that inspires me to contribute my best every day,” he says, with fervour that he brings to his work in CAD Automation. “In my 15 years of experience, I have been involved in several projects and developed several complex AutoCAD 2D detail drawings and 3D automation projects, including pile cap details, working and test piles, and transformer foundations,” he shares with a flourish.
Presently, Anand is working on CAD Automation for Civil & TL 3D & 2D drawings, leading the CAD Automation Team. “In my project, I have implemented several unique technologies and digitalization initiatives to significantly enhance our progress,” he shares excitedly. “A notable one being the RPA process, where I utilized AutoCAD Automation API DLLs to develop CAD drawings that streamlined the creation of detailed designs, reduced manual effort, and increased efficiency, resulting in faster and more accurate project delivery.”
There have been a few challenges along the way. One that he faces during the development phase is the position of the Ui clicks varying from system to system making it difficult to map the system. “To overcome this, we have written a code to check where the button with the corresponding ID and name is the same to map the system using just one set of automation codes,” Anand explains.
He eagerly anticipates the introduction of AI into the field of automation. “We are currently working on it to improve the automation feasibility. It is also an opportunity for me to enhance my work to the next level,” he smiles with a thumbs up. “We had earlier built a concept based on the limited provision given by the partner teams in terms of automation,” he mentions, “but with the latest version, we can change it to improve its performance, reduce time for execution and be a gamechanger,” he grins happily.
“My seniors regularly mentor me, encouraging me to take on challenging tasks to push my boundaries and develop new skills,” Anand remarks grateful. “I am also able to refine my approach and improve my performance thanks to their constructive feedback.”
Anand hails from Trichy, Tamil Nadu and his better half is Mary Vasha, a homemaker, and they are blessed with two children, daughter, Sanjana, and son, Teajo Reayan. What helps him relax and stay refreshed is reading & playing cricket. “Ultimately, these activities enhance my productivity at work,” he signs off positively.
One of Steffy Maria Joy’s most memorable moments at L&T was receiving the First Runners-Up Prize at the PI-Awards 2024 for the Integrated Engineering & Design Platform and it is soon evident that being a part of the team that developed the platform is a matter of immense pride for her. “Developing the IEDP platform along with the key components of the EBV optimizer and automated drawing generation with RPA has really revolutionized the way we work,” she shares, her eyes shining. “Seeing its results in ongoing tenders has improved the confidence of our team to handle more volume of work and provide results with better accuracy.”
She acknowledges the continuous guidance from her seniors for the improvements required for the IEDP platform & the constant support of her team members in testing & verifying the results that has made the platform a reality.
Having developed and commenced its implementation, Steffy is eagerly looking ahead to further enhance the platform such that it can be adopted across all the tenders & projects of the Renewables business. Did she face any hiccups when implementing? “Well, yes,” she nods, “because transferring knowledge to the development team who were from a non-technical background was a challenge, but we addressed this with continuous calls, workshops, and testing at each stage of development of the platform,” she says resolutely.
Steffy’s wonderful journey with L&T began in 2013 as a PGET in the Renewables Design team. “I worked as the Lead Engineer and Technical Lead for the DC Electrical Design team to design various SPV plants done by L&T in India,” she picks up her career story. “Currently, I am working as the Project Engineering Manager for the 90 MW Omkareshwar FSPV & 100 MW Getalsud FSPV,” and adds proudly, “also, coordinating and supporting the IEDP development activities of Renewables EDRC.”
Describing her L&T experience thus far, Steffy says, “All the projects that I am involved with at L&T is contributing to nation building and is a promise towards a greener future for generations to come. The challenging nature of successful jobs that we are executing as a team adds to my pride,” she adds, her eyes gleaming.
PROPELLED BY A ‘DYNAMIC’ ZEST FOR TECH
Bharat Minocha
Dynamo Programmer, PT&D IC
The IEDP for solar PV plants is Bharat Minocha’s first project at L&T, where he works as a Dynamo Programmer for BIM development and automation. “Our next goal is to successfully execute the IEDP-Substation project, which will be a significant achievement for PT&D IC,” he reveals.
Bharat and team are leveraging Python within Dynamo’s interface. “It is essential that engineers and draftspersons have a basic understanding of how to execute workflows,” observes Bharat, noting that the team has incorporated the basics of Dynamo into the curriculum for new trainees. “The combination of the OOTB Dynamo library with custom Python scripts captures and streamlines workflows to generate the overall solar plant layout and even extract the final BOQ,” he shares. Once the process is optimized through Dynamo, their next step is to develop custom add-ins and plug-ins, and by incorporating specific error-handling mechanisms using C#, these tools will enhance user experience and make the workflows more robust. Bharat adds that in the long term, the team aims to progress to web applications, which will significantly & positively impact software acquisition costs and accelerate execution.
Bharat owes a lot to his seniors for their support in every tech initiative. “Whenever I hit a logical roadblock, it all gets sorted after a discussion with them,” he notes with gratitude. “I take immense pride in being a part of Ms. Geetha Hariharan’s team and being associated with Mr. A. Kalyanasundaram, who are the true ‘Tech Champions’!”
Coming from a civil engineering background, Bharat admits that he had a few initial challenges. “I was confident with core concepts, but using tech in automation for electrical design was new to me. My seniors helped me a lot through each crest and trough. I did some extensive research of my own as well to better understand all that I am supposed to automate, and it has worked out well,” he smiles.
“Every little moment I can bring a smile to my mother’s face are the moments I live for and cherish each time,” he says with eyes glistening. “Nothing else can come close to those moments.” Hailing from Rohtak, Haryana, Bharat is ‘happily single’, in his own words. “I love hiking and trekking,” he shares, “and sometimes combine them with cycling for an extra adrenaline rush. Reaching the top, out of breath but rewarded with mesmerizing views, makes every pedal and step worth it!”
As he signs off, Bharat mentions that the Company’s prestigious history of technological innovations is a source of motivation for the future generation to push for the best. “If there is one thing that L&T stands for, it is DRIFT – ‘Do it right the first time’.”
AT THE START OF HER DIGITAL JOURNEY,
AND THRILLED ABOUT IT
Although Subhramita Kundu has been involved with various Solar PV projects, she is working at her first digital programme with L&T and is thoroughly excited about the whole experience. “L&T is an organization that gives freshers a lot of exposure, keeps faith on them and is always striving to implement the latest technologies in their projects,” she notes, leaving no doubt that she values her association. “Overall, due to the healthy and productive work culture, I am proud to be part of the organization,” she says, eyes shining.
A true digital native, Subhramita is convinced that with digitalization, it is possible to integrate multiple software to evaluate the Lowest Cost of Energy and generate BOQs apart from analysing layouts. “The entire process reduces human effort and errors due to the integrated working,” she notes wisely. She agrees that the implementation of digitalization tools is a new concept, requiring multiple test cases and iterations to get the desired results. “Multiple positive as well as negative test cases have been run from our end to ensure seamless automation and process execution,” she observes.
Driving digitalization is a collaborative effort and Subhramita is appreciative of her colleagues for being there for her. “I have received continuous support and motivation from my seniors and team members to take up the role to support the development of the digitalization tools,” she shares, nodding cheerfully.
Looking ahead, she feels that new automation and data analysis technologies can be implemented for data analysis and further integration and recommends data analysis using the Python software.
On her personal side, Subhramita hails from West Bengal, is single and her lovely family comprises her mother, Madhumita Kundu, who is a schoolteacher, and her father, Subhransu Kundu, a retired bank employee. It is not surprising that some of her life’s most memorable moments are the quality time she has enjoyed with her family and friends. During her free time, Subhramita loves to watch sports and read comics and assures that she finds time to follow her interests.
APPRECIATING VARIOUS REFINED PURSUITS
Monika Tanjay
Senior Design Engineer (Elec), PT&D IC
“I am currently dedicated to tender engineering and create digital optimization tools,” shares Monika Tanjay about her present preoccupation, having earlier worked on the NEOM Green Hydrogen Project, which had an installed capacity of 536 MVA/599.25 MWh, and GSECL’s 35MW/57MWh. Her highlight at L&T has been the development of the BESS Optimizer for a range of applications, including standalone systems, Mobisol, energy shifting, assured power, round-the-clock operations, and frequency regulation.
“It is crucial to size the battery energy storage systems correctly as it affects their entire economic feasibility, performance, and efficiency,” she explains about her pet project. “The BESS Optimizer provides the best installed capacity along with cost information, developed to minimize investment and operating costs, ensure profitability for the end-user, and balance the power requirement of a given system.” There have been several technical challenges along the way prompting Monika to take a series of key steps to overcome them. “Continuous discussions with the development and internal team members were crucial, which helped us to thoroughly examine all the issues, leading to innovative solutions and effective resolution of all technical difficulties,” she says with the vigour of a mission accomplished.
Monika advocates more streamlined and user-centric implementation to drive technology adoption. “Comprehensive training resources will significantly ease transition and improve user engagement,” she nods. “Additionally, fostering a more collaborative environment for feedback and iterative improvement will further drive adoption and ensure that technology solutions are better aligned with user needs and preferences,” she says definitively.
In her wish list that could greatly improve her work is an advanced BESS Optimizer. “It could help us manage and optimize energy storage more effectively, make our operations more efficient and reliable and by providing better analysis and control, it will simplify our processes and enhance overall performance,” she smiles in anticipation.
Being a part of L&T has been immensely rewarding for Monika, especially since the organization values and fosters forward-thinking initiatives that inspire and reinforce her pride to contribute to its success. While her seniors and team members have wholeheartedly supported her efforts, she has gained enormously from Mr. Shubham Jain’s invaluable mentorship. “His guidance has deepened my technical expertise, refined my problem-solving skills and his insightful feedback and encouragement have fostered my growth and confidence in navigating complex challenges.”
Hailing from Raipur, Chhattisgarh, and single, Monika holds a deep appreciation for various refined pursuits like the practice of yoga, calligraphy, culinary arts, painting, and gardening. “Each of these activities enriches my life, combining creativity with mindfulness and personal growth and I carefully organize my time to enjoy them all,” she says blissfully.
SCRIPTING HIS GROWTH STORY
Vikash Chauhan
Associate Engineer, PT&D IC
“I have created scripts to automate the installation process of our software to reduce commissioning time and meet project deadlines and created automated scripts in Excel for quicker configuration of our software,” flags off Vikash Chauhan, as his best contributions thus far to L&T, joining which is one of his life’s best moments. Apart from L&T’s commitment to innovation and excellence, what makes him a proud L&T‑ite is “being part of a company that consistently leads in technological advancements and large-scale projects that inspire me to contribute my best,” he says zealously.
Vikash has had a few opportunities to showcase his talent at a clutch of L&T projects including the Hybrid Energy Management System for GSECL 35 MW PV + 57 MW BESS, Gujarat, PPC at three projects: 230 MW NTPC, Ettayapuram, Tamil Nadu, 700 MW Ar RASS, Middle East & 40 MW, GSECL Haripar, Gujarat and ESS at 100 kW, L&T Hazira & at the Sadashivpet & Minpur projects for RENEW POWER.
There have been a few speed breakers in his growth path as well. “Since my academic background was from computer science, understanding about the electrical concept in the field was a bit challenging,” Vikash smiles tightly. “But I was very resilient and positive towards learning new concepts and I received very good support from my seniors who helped me to overcome these challenges.” He elaborates that both his seniors and team members have always been by his side. “They guide me, share knowledge, encourage me to take on challenges and their feedback and collaboration are helping me grow into a skilled tech professional,” he says with determination.
To drive greater awareness & adoption of technology solutions within L&T, he would like to see more hands-on workshops and collaborative projects. “These will help the team to understand and apply new technologies more effectively,” emphasizes Vikash. In terms of new introductions, he is keen to implement AI-driven analytics tools to streamline data processing, improve decision- making, efficiency and accuracy in work.
A ‘Haryanvi’ by birth, Vikash is still single and presently only married to his job. Cricket & workouts are what keeps him going when he is not scripting his growth with L&T.
“I believe that the energy transition movement from 2020–2030 presents monumental opportunities for companies that specialize in collaboration and innovation,” declares Gustav Cruz, convinced that Digital Energy Solutions is on the cusp of exponential growth in the advanced grid services and digital solutions space.
Bringing with him a decade-long experience in the Philippines where he had the good fortune to observe and participate in resolving complex energy transition problems, he is delighted to be wearing multiple hats in his fledgling 9‑month stint with DES. Gustav’s role is to assist the team in advancing cutting-edge projects from the incubation phase to commercialization. “Our projects cater to a wide range of clientele, such as our Vehicle-to-Building project for C&I customers, the commercialization of a robust ML-based Phase. Identification Tool to help Utilities, and Solar plus BESS integration projects for various customers, including EPCs, U.S. Indian tribes, and municipalities.”
An evangelist of smart working, Gustav encourages utilizing technological tools to establish systems, and automate tasks. His approach has been to build his own modern tool kit comprising digital marketing, coding, data literacy, copywriting, project management, business strategy and finance. “This strategy helps me to complete my tasks efficiently and equips me with contemporary skills to augment my engineering toolkit like employing Python coding to automate the execution of multiple static power system case studies in PSS/E within seconds,” he says rousingly. In another project, he uses Jupyter Notebook to process and visualize voluminous metering data in a jiffy. “Debugging nowadays is quicker and easier thanks to generative AI tools,” he smiles, “and I use the same principle to automate a resource allocation process through VBA Macro, Selenium, and Tesseract.”
Gustav recalls a time when he had to write 250 pages of compelling grant proposals and technical specification documents for his tribal clients under tight deadlines. “Now, I resort to learning generative AI coupled with learning prompt engineering for a starting point to be inspired,” he says dreamily.
A collaborative environment and empowerment are his secrets for success. “My seniors Jayant and Arindam have been my mentors and guides, and I enjoy working with the team, learn from them too,” he observes. “My intrapreneurial spirit drives me to spearhead new initiatives, and my team’s strong support brings a good work life balance. I thoroughly enjoy both my professional and personal life,” he says with gusto.
A native of Philippines, Gustav’s better half is Cheerlyn, an engineer in the semiconductor industry, and for him, “My life and safe space.” Their 3‑year-old son Levi is another great source of inspiration, who’s birth is his life’s most cherished moment. When not working, he takes care of himself physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
“As an Engineering and Commissioning Manager, my continuous focus is on integrating advanced technologies from OEMs and best practices followed currently to drive progress and ensure successful project delivery,” states Arivu Selvan, with an assured sense of purpose. “It enables us to proactively address potential issues before they escalate, to significantly improve efficiency and reduce downtime.”
Despite his role clarity and what Digital Energy Solutions, a business carved out of PT&D IC, expects of him, the going at times has been uphill for Arivu, especially in system integration. “Integrating the various products from different OEMs often throws up technical difficulties,” he points out, “but by conducting various tests and analysing the behaviour of the products at site, we can ensure seamless integration and operation,” he says with an encouraging smile.
To further improve overall integration & delivery, Arivu suggests more customization and flexibility. “The initiative to customize products will help to easily adopt various new technologies and best practices that will enhance the performance of the overall plant, while flexibility in implementation can make it easier to integrate without major delays and resources,” he nods knowingly.
Having cut his teeth at three earlier projects with L&T including the 40 MW Solar Power Plant in Haripar, Gujarat; the 230 MW Solar Power Plant in Ettayapuram, Tamil Nadu; and the 700 MW Solar Power Plant in Ar Rass, Saudi Arabia, Arivu is delighted that his learning curve at L&T has been steep. “It is with the invaluable guidance from and support of my seniors and team members, that I have been able to complete my tasks effectively and make significant progress to be recognized as a Tech Champion,” he mentions gratefully. He is effusive of his praise for L&T too and its unparalleled presence in infrastructure and technology. “The company is capable of undertaking projects of any scale and consistently excels in delivering outstanding results. No project is too large for L&T,” he says.
AI IS THE FUTURE
Dr S S Dheeban
Principal Electrical Engineer, PT&D IC
“I am eager to integrate AI into our processes to enhance work efficiency, streamline operations, and reduce delivery times,” shares an excited Dr S S Dheeban. “Embracing AI is not just about keeping pace with technological advancements; it’s about revolutionizing our methodology.”
From a Research and Industry background with 8 years’ experience and armed with a Ph.D. specializing in Power System Research, he has developed industry expertise in DER/ EV integration, microgrids, meter data management, and decarbonization. “Vehicle-to-Building Technologies for Resilient Backup – California, USA, is my present project that demonstrates microgrids powered with Electric Vehicles (EVs) can support critical loads during long-duration outages such as Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) events and natural disasters,” he explains painstakingly. “It demonstrates an innovative Multi-Vehicle DC Platform (MVP DC) Vehicle-to-Building (V2B) Electric Vehicle charger to help EVs act as reliable DER assets in a microgrid, with a controller design that coordinates with all other entities in the microgrid system.”
Touching upon his contribution to the other projects, he mentions designing a Power Oscillation Damping Controller for the 700 MW ArRASS‑1 solar power plant, embedded into L&T’s Power Plant Controller. “Some of my other innovative ideation projects include the AWARE Tool, a Battery Energy Storage analytics tool to improve the reliability of the BESS system that is getting deployed at the GSEC-Kutch project site,” he reveals.
A firm believer in smart working, Dheeban focuses on automating manual workflows, like developing internal validation tools such as the Prony Analysis Tool, specifically designed for the Power Oscillation Damping controller, which has accelerated the project study process by 20%. Advanced analytics tools help gain deeper insights and enhance understanding to make more informed decisions and ultimately better outcomes. “My approach is to leverage technology and automation to transform traditional processes, driving both innovation and efficiency in our work,” he states simply.
While drafting new solutions and ideas is an exciting and creative process, Dheeban finds translating them into real-time projects both time-consuming and complex. “Therefore, I focus on thoroughly analysing the project requirements and aligning them to the implementation strategies.” He acknowledges the support & motivation of his mentor, Dr Arindam Maitra, the expertise & experience of Amitabh Singhal and an environment that encourages out-of-the-box thinking.
Dheeban hails from Sivakasi, and he describes his better half Kavitha Balan, who used to be a Subject Matter Expert on BIM at L&T EduTech, as the cornerstone of his success. They are blessed with a daughter, 3‑year-old Laksetha Iniyal, his other pillars of strength being his parents, Dr S Sembulingam, a retired doctor, and T Jeyalakshmi, a retired professor. While thought-provoking games challenge his intellect, regular gymming tunes his body.
He is thoroughly grateful to his seniors, including the NE BU Head, for their invaluable mentorship and proactive thinking that has empowered A Balaji to push forward to take on and resolve challenging tasks. “They have empowered me to take the right step in selecting vendor partners / service providers and their guidance, articulation, and shared knowledge have helped create an environment that fosters continuous learning and excellence in technology,” he shares, appreciating the support of his team members too.
Presently, Balaji is Project Manager for the seven Public Electric Vehicle Charging Stations for the ANERT-Solar City Project in Thiruvananthapuram City for e‑Bus & e‑CAR, though leading up to it, he was District In-charge for the TANFINET Project for the districts of Coimbatore and Tirupur covering 2,250 km of OFC cable laying in 500 Gram Panchayats and prior to that, Project Manager to convert the Overhead Lines into UG Cabling in Cuddalore including 150 km of HT Cables, 450 km of LT Cables and installing 525 RMUs.
Shedding light on his tech association, Balaji informs that the IoT-enabled EVSE, smart meters, and CCTV systems are cloud hosted & monitored through App-based features at public charging stations. “GPRS services with strong signal strength and encryption features are essential to ensure their smooth operation while prioritizing cybersecurity,” he points out. “The Smart Energy Meters installed on the input side and monitored digitally and remotely through cloud hosting, via web and mobile Apps, provide critical insights into energy consumption patterns, including quantity, timing, duration, and efficiency on the utility end.”
The relevant details of the EVSE, such as uptime, availability, charge status, and power consumption, are stored in the cloud-based Charge Point Management System (CPMS) using the Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) and Balaji adds that their partnerships with reputable network service providers enable online booking, billing, payment, and charging data management, that are fully digitalized.
He has had his fair share of challenges like identifying appropriate shadow-free land with ready access and adequate capacity in the nearby grid source for solar. “We explored 30 locations to finally find 6 suitable sites,” he shakes his head. Another was to identify a reliable incoming power source for EV charging stations to maintain operational efficiency & increase charger uptime. “We have effectively navigated these challenges thanks to our collaborative approaches with various stakeholders,” he beams.
Born and brought up in Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu, Balaji is married to Anitha, a homemaker, who is also pursuing her studies online. Two daughters, Tanushya Anandhi B and Harini Sree B, make up his family. “My hobbies include reading novels, listening to discourses by Acharyas, and spending quality time with my family,” he rounds off.
“Over the past 17 years, L&T has given me extensive exposure to various fields, like power plants, refineries, coal handling plants, raw material handling, and rural electrification projects,” begins Arindam Bhattacharjee, a proud L&T‑ite. During his stint at PT&D’s New Electrics business, he was the Project Manager of the EV Charging Stations for the New Kolkata Development Authority (NKDA). “The rigorous testing and validation process, supported by effective coordination among various stakeholders, ensured that the charging stations met all required functionalities, performance, and safety standards, with reliability and efficiency thanks to our comprehensive approach,” he adds happily.
The team’s coordination with the WBSEDCL authority was crucial to align the charging stations’ power capacity requirements with the availability of grid connections. “In addition, we worked with the charger OEM, CPMS provider, and network provider to ensure effective integration and synchronization between the stations, backend systems, & user interfaces, for reliable & uninterrupted connectivity,” he shares. “Senior members’ strategic leadership was indispensable, and all the team members delivered on technical execution, collaboration, and quality assurance, setting a benchmark for excellence.”
Arindam believes that data analytics will significantly help in improving the charging infrastructure. “Monitoring usage patterns, identifying pain points, and implementing user suggestions can enhance the overall experience and drive higher adoption rates,” he notes. “Incorporating cutting-edge features such as ultra-fast charging, smart grid integration, and renewable energy sources will certainly attract more users and support sustainable growth.” He, however, cautions that proper customer support from the providers is vital, as is maintaining high uptime and swiftly resolving technical issues. Looking ahead, he hopes for more tech solutions that can improve project planning, optimize resource allocation, and streamline design processes.
A native of Kolkata, Arindam loves playing cricket and listening to Bengali songs. He is married to Paramita Chakraborty, an HR professional, and they are blessed with a daughter, Sharodiya. “The day she came into our life is one I’ll never forget,” he says emotionally.
“L&T’s long history of taking on complex, challenging projects that push the boundaries of technology and infrastructure, whether it is constructing landmark buildings, advancing technology in various sectors, or contributing to large-scale infrastructure projects, is what I find endearing,” he says, beaming. “L&T’s focus on delivering high-quality, impactful solutions, striving for excellence, and contributing significantly to societal development is something to be proud of!”