Novatae Risk Group

Renewable Energy Insurance: What You Need to Know

Written by Daniel Kerr | Feb 16, 2026 9:24:19 PM

Powering Growth: Why Renewable Energy Insurance Matters

For retail insurance brokers, renewable energy clients represent one of the fastest-growing and most complex risk segments in today's market. From utility-scale solar farms and onshore wind projects to battery storage and emerging clean technologies, renewable energy developments face unique operational, contractual, and regulatory exposures. Even small missteps can result in major financial losses, project delays, or coverage gaps. 

At Novatae, we partner exclusively with retail agents to deliver specialized insurance for renewable energy projects through A-rated carriers. Our renewable energy insurance programs are designed to support clients across every phase of development, from site acquisition and construction to long-term operations, helping brokers place sophisticated risks with confidence. 

What Is Insurance for Renewable Energy Projects?

Insurance for renewable energy projects refers to a coordinated suite of coverages structured to protect clean energy developers, owners, operators, and contractors from the financial risks inherent in renewable power generation. Unlike traditional property or casualty placements, renewable energy insurance programs must account for evolving technology, complex supply chains, environmental exposure, and long-term performance obligations. 

Whether your client is building a solar installation, operating a wind portfolio, or investing in energy storage infrastructure, a properly structured renewable energy insurance program helps protect capital, maintain lender compliance, and ensure project continuity. 

Core Coverages Within a Renewable Energy Insurance Program

1. Property & Equipment Coverage

Protects physical assets such as solar panels, wind turbines, inverters, transformers, and balance-of-system equipment against losses from fire, weather events, theft, and mechanical breakdown. 

2. Builders' Risk / Course of Construction

Provides coverage during construction and installation, protecting materials, equipment, and work in progress from loss or damage prior to project completion. 

3. General Liability Insurance

Covers third-party bodily injury or property damage arising from project operations, maintenance activities, or construction-related exposures. 

4. Professional Liability (E&O)

Addresses claims stemming from design errors, engineering miscalculations, or project management failures—particularly important for EPC firms and design-build contractors.

5. Environmental & Pollution Liability

Renewable projects may still involve environmental exposures such as soil disturbance, battery chemical leaks, or site contamination. Pollution liability coverage helps manage regulatory and cleanup risks. 

6. Delay in Start-Up (DSU) / Business Interruption

Protects against lost revenue caused by covered delays in project completion or operational downtime following a physical loss. 

7. Excess or Umbrella Liability

Adds an additional layer of protection above primary liability limits, often required by investors, lenders, and public entities on large-scale renewable projects. 

Who Needs Renewable Energy Insurance?

Any organization involved in the development, construction, ownership, or operation of renewable energy infrastructure can benefit from a tailored insurance solution. Typical insured classes include:

  • Renewable energy developers and project sponsors
  • Solar and wind farm owners and operators
  • EPC contractors and design-build firms
  • Energy storage and battery operators
  • Independent power producers (IPPs)
  • Infrastructure investors and project financiers
  • Construction contractors working on renewable sites

As capital flows into clean energy, stakeholders increasingly require robust insurance programs to protect assets and satisfy contractual obligations. Brokers who understand renewable energy insurance can play a critical role in keeping projects moving forward. 

Why It's Essential for Retail Brokers

Renewable energy risks don't fit neatly into standard insurance frameworks. Each project presents unique variables: geographic exposure, technology type, grid interconnection, construction timelines, and regulatory oversight. 

Novatae supports retail brokers by providing:

  • Access to specialty renewable energy markets and A-rated carriers
  • Underwriting teams experienced in clean energy and infrastructure risks
  • Flexible program structures for construction-phase and operational risks
  • Guidance on lender requirements, contractual risk transfer, and coverage alignment

With the right wholesale partner, brokers can confidently structure insurance for renewable energy projects that meets both technical and financial expectations. 

 

This article is not intended to be exhaustive, nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as legal advice. Readers should contact legal counsel or an insurance professional for appropriate advice.