BONUS: Solving Community, Compliance, and Permitting Challenges in Solar

Hosted by: Angelique Dickson

In this bonus episode, Host Angie Dickson, President of the Inogen Alliance and EVP of Antea Group USA, speaks with Sasikumar, Chief Marketing Officer with Chola Risk Services in India. Sasikumar shares a real-world case study from a 750 MW solar project that faced significant regulatory, permitting, and community challenges mid-development.

M Sasikumar

Chola MS Risk - India

M Sasikumar holds a bachelor’s degree in Electrical & Electronics Engineering with a Masters degree in Business Management and Dip in Industrial Safety. Sasi has over 25 years of experience both in industrial, process plants and projects. He has carried out safety audit / studies for buildings, cement plants, refinery, pharma, petro chemical industries and commercial complex. He has carried out numerous training programs for various clients in the filed of ESA, lighting protection, Hazardous Area.

Sasikumar is one among the 4 IEC Ex certified engineer in India for hazardous area classification is he is also a Level 1 Certified Thermographer by Infrared Training Centre (ITC), Sweden and is trained in Thermal imaging and related analytical techniques. He has been a visiting facility for Chennai Petroleum Engineers’ Training School, Chennai and other industrial plants like Integral Coach Factory.

Currently he is working as CMO & Head - Audit and Assurance at Cholamandalam MS Risk Services Ltd, Chennai, a JV between Murugappa group and Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance group of Japan

Time Stamps

00:00 Introduction to the Energy Transition Bonus Case Study
00:45 Overview of the 750 MW Solar Project in Central India
01:55 Regulatory, Forest Zone, and Water Body Constraints
03:45 Community Resistance and Public Hearing Challenges
04:55 Addressing Livelihood Concerns and Misconceptions About Solar Heat
05:45 Education, Safety Communication, and Local Language Engagement
06:25 Design Changes: Pathways, Access, and Infrastructure Adjustments
07:30 Key Lessons: Compliance, Planning, and Stakeholder Trust
08:10 How the Project Shaped Future Solar Developments