Apr 22
The Government’s latest Energy Security Strategy is further proof, as if it were needed, that the country is firmly moving towards becoming net zero.
With events around the globe, this goal is becoming more and more important, meaning we can expect activities to reach net zero to keep ramping up.
This acceleration will have an inevitable effect on the construction industry.
With new nuclear power stations, wind turbines, solar farms, and hydroelectric energy sources all laid out in the new plan, there’s going to be a lot for the construction industry to get its teeth into. Even fracking is being considered to make a return.
The plans estimate 95% of Great Britain’s electricity being low carbon as early as 2030.
If this process is not managed well by the construction industry, it could lead to a shortage of skilled labour throughout the sector, resulting in delays and additional costs.
The consequences of failure could be highly damaging and costly, which is why the insurance industry will have a major part to play in allowing these plans to move forward.
We have trusted relationships with specialist underwriters who understand the risks involved in these types of ventures, however it will also fall on insurance brokers to play an active role.
Brokers can help their clients to take advantage of the lucrative contracts on offer by ensuring they have comprehensive cover in place. However, they will also have a significant role to play in easing any insurer fears about underwriting high risk construction projects.
One such way they will have to do this is by taking seriously their responsibility to vet all the main contractors and subcontractors, either on an annual or project specific basis.
Giving the underwriter as much information as possible about those working on a project, and being able to prove their competency in similar projects, will go a long way to comforting them and securing the client an improved risk rating.
It’s never too early for a broker to start discussing these matters with their clients. Particularly if they have previous experience in the renewable energy sector, it is worth getting early insight on how these new Government plans may effect them.
Major announcements such as these present opportunities for insurance brokers to prove their value to clients. And we will support you in delivering the best service possible.
We can place all kinds of construction and contractors risks with our markets, including single projects where all contractors on site are covered under one policy.
As an independent wholesale broker we can act relatively unconstrained by bureaucratic processes, but the quicker we receive detailed risk information, the greater flexibility it gives us to discuss with the underwriter and get a policy placed on suitable terms for you.
Feel free to contact me to start a discussion today. A lot of activity is expected in the next few years, and having a trusted partnership with a wholesaler you know can deliver will be essential for consistently delivering the top service clients want.
Speciality Areas
- Asbestos
- Contractors Liability
- Excess of Loss
- Pharmaceuticals
- Manufacturing
Andy Graham is head of specialist risks at Consilium. Andy is responsible for specialist liability risks and developing existing and new facilities for the group.
He joined the group in July 2020 having worked at Lloyd's broking firms for 34 years. This has included time at PWS International in UK account handling and time with Windsor Insurance Brokers specialising in liability. He then joined Griffiths and Armour London, which would later become COBRA London Markets, where he was a director.
Outside of work, Andy has both flown and jumped out of an aeroplane, among some other crazy things.
“I had several options on who to join but thought Consilium had the best facilities that would complement my account.”