In conversation with Vijay Behera, Founder, SATYAM AIRCON, this interview traces a journey shaped by hands-on experience, technical curiosity, and large-scale project execution. From complex industrial challenges to evolving trends in energy efficiency and indoor air quality, he shares insights into the changing landscape of HVAC and its growing role in integrated building design.
Could you briefly share your professional journey in the HVAC industry and how you got started?
I come from a humble farming background in rural Odisha, where access to technical education and opportunities was quite limited. However, I always had a deep curiosity about technical products, their implementation in large-scale projects, and the design and engineering behind them.
This passion gradually guided me towards the HVAC industry, given its relevance in India. Through hands-on experience and determination, I built my career step by step. Over time, I had the privilege of working closely with globally renowned brands like Mitsubishi Electric and LG Electronics, which significantly shaped my technical and professional growth.
What types of projects (residential, commercial, industrial, etc.) have you primarily worked on?
At SATYAM AIRCON, we primarily focus on commercial, institutional, and industrial HVAC projects, along with selective highend residential assignments. Our expertise lies in executing complete EPC projects in a cost-effective manner, along with providing operation and maintenance services to ensure the long-term performance and reliability of HVAC systems.
Can you highlight one or two key projects that best represent your expertise?
Two projects that truly reflect Satyam Aircon’s technical approach and problem-solving capabilities were with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited in Mumbai and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited, also in Mumbai. The Mazagon Dock project was challenging due to its proximity to the sea, where corrosion posed a major risk to equipment and machinery. To address this environmental challenge, we implemented a specialized chemical coating solution designed to withstand harsh marine conditions. This approach proved highly effective and has delivered strong long-term results in terms of durability and performance.
At Hindustan Petroleum Corporation, the key challenge was completing the project without disrupting ongoing operations. Through careful planning, phased execution, and precise coordination with stakeholders, we successfully completed the project without compromising even a single hour of their normal working schedule. This project stands as a strong example of our capability in handling high-value and highly sensitive environments with zero downtime. Both projects highlight our ability to solve complex problems, execute strategically, and deliver customized solutions under challenging conditions.
How do you typically collaborate with architects and consultants during a project?
Collaboration is a critical part of successful HVAC execution. We work closely with architects and consultants from the design stage, ensuring that HVAC systems are well integrated with architectural intent and functional requirements.
Our approach is to provide practical, technically sound inputs that help optimize space utilization, energy efficiency, and overall performance without compromising design and aesthetics.
At what stage do you get involved in projects, and how do you add value to the design process?
Ideally, we prefer to get involved early in the concept of a project or at the design stage. Early involvement allows us to contribute by suggesting better system configurations, selecting appropriate equipment and machinery, and developing efficient layouts. This proactive approach helps reduce longterm operational costs and avoids costly design changes later.
What technical expertise or specialised solutions do you provide in air conditioning systems?
Our core strength lies in delivering end-to-end HVAC solutions, including:
• Engineering, Procurement & Construction (EPC)
• Operation & Maintenance (O&M)
• Air balancing and system performance optimization
• Energy-efficient and cost-optimized system design
We focus on designing and delivering systems that achieve high performance while maintaining cost efficiency.
How have LG Electronics and Mitsubishi Electric technologies supported your project execution and outcomes?
LG Electronics and Mitsubishi Electric have been at the forefront of HVAC product development for many years and continue to innovate. Their products are known for reliability, energy efficiency, and advanced control features, which allow us to deliver high-performing solutions to our clients.
These technologies also integrate well with building automation systems, simplify maintenance, and support long-term operational efficiency.
What trends or innovations in HVAC do you believe will shape the future of the industry?
The future of HVAC is being shaped by several key trends.
Energy efficiency is a major driver. There is increasing demand for systems that reduce longterm operating costs while supporting broader sustainability goals. This is influencing how HVAC systems are designed and integrated from the early stages of building projects.
Control systems are also becoming more sophisticated. HVAC is no longer a standalone system but part of a connected building environment. Improved controls and monitoring enable more consistent performance, easier troubleshooting, and more informed decisions over time.
There is also a growing focus on indoor air quality, particularly in healthcare, educational, and highoccupancy buildings. Ventilation, filtration, and airflow management are now treated as core design elements rather than secondary features.
In practice, this means designing HVAC systems that are well integrated with buildings and efficient to operate over the long term.
