Seizing the opportunity starts with controlling the risk

More than $200 billion is expected to be invested on wind, solar and biofuels in 2010, and this spending will only continue to grow exponentially as the world demands more non-fossil fuel sources.

Companies operating in the alternative energy industry face unique risk issues. For example, moving critical equipment and materials from alternative energy manufacturers to remote sites requires ocean and inland marine transit solutions that can navigate fast-moving risks and the changing regulatory and security environment.

The erection of a wind farm or solar energy panels requires a holistic construction risk management program from an experienced insurer. Federal laws in the U.S.,such as investment tax credits and carbon credits can affect how a company operates. Operating in remote locations can be another challenge for wind and solar plants, which are often situated miles away from emergency services.

To meet all the needs of alternative energy producers and manufacturers, Zurich Energy offers more than 70 risk management services and 17 online tools to help mitigate losses and reduce both operational and financial risks.

Some of the key products and services Zurich Energy provides include:

• In 2008 alone, Zurich provided coverage for nearly $42 billion in energy projects
• Zurich’s Global Climate office was launched in 2008 to lead the development of new products and services addressing the evolving risks associated with climate change
• We created the Better Green™ property endorsement offering opportunity to offset green upgrade costs
• Every alternative energy customer gets a single point of contact for all underwriting needs and a claims service account executive to coordinate claims service
• Zurich offers more than 20 products to meet virtually all the insurance exposures of manufacturers of alternative energy technology parts and components
• To help move critical equipment and materials from alternative energy manufacturers to remote sites, Zurich provides ocean and inland marine transit solutions

Zurich offers risk transfer solutions for companies such as:

• Developers of energy wind and solar projects
• Construction / erection / installation contractors
• Owners / operators
• Equipment manufacturers
• Infrastructure projects (e.g., transmission lines)
• Service providers such as shipping companies, crane rental, and maintenance contractors