en.Wedoany.com Reported - US climate insurance provider kWh Analytics recently announced a data-sharing pilot project aimed at encouraging renewable energy assets to adopt advanced resilience measures to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather. By collecting solar project data to expand risk modeling capabilities, the project focuses on tracker technology advancements—such as stow positions at tilt angles above 70 degrees, automated stow programs, and historical performance data—providing insurers with new pathways to assess asset design before severe weather events.
In its initial phase, the pilot will improve the collection and transmission of project-level resilience data. kWh Analytics stated that modeling advanced configurations can reduce average annual portfolio losses and premiums compared to baseline assumptions. Projects employing measures such as thicker, heat-strengthened glass further reduce losses. Solar developers participating in the collaboration will share real-time and historical hail stow performance data of the Nextpower tracking system, enabling evidence-based risk assessment. This approach resembles telematics technology in auto insurance, aligning premiums more closely with actual risk.
Jason Kaminsky, CEO of kWh Analytics, noted: "Extreme weather remains a major driver of losses for utility-scale solar assets, and the industry is rapidly evolving its risk management approaches. By leveraging real-world data, we can more closely align insurance structures with demonstrated resilience, encouraging investment in asset protection and enhancing the long-term bankability of projects." A case study shows that actively stowing modules at 75 degrees reduces the probability of damage by 87% compared to 60 degrees.
The new framework emphasizes the role of advanced tracker systems and design strategies in withstanding high winds, hail, and flooding. As extreme weather becomes increasingly frequent in the US, this approach aims to link insurance pricing with engineering and operational choices. kWh Analytics anticipates more technological practices will qualify for premium differentiation in the future. Last month, Beazley reached an agreement to acquire kWh Analytics, which will enhance Beazley's capabilities in renewable energy risk modeling and underwriting.
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