Powering progress: How Howden’s renewable energy facility delivers real world benefits

The UK’s renewable energy sector is moving faster than ever and developers, operators, and investors need insurance solutions that can keep pace.

At Howden, our focus has always been on pairing global capability with local expertise. The expansion of our Aviva backed renewable energy facility across all UK hubs takes this one step further, giving clients a faster, smarter, and more streamlined way to protect their energy assets from construction through to operation.

Built for the real demands of renewable energy projects

Renewable projects require underwriting decisions that match the speed of development cycles - especially in competitive markets like onshore wind, solar PV, hydro power, and battery energy storage. That’s exactly where this facility excels.

The quote and bind platform offers:

• Capacity of up to £100 million per declaration, giving developers the financial confidence to move quickly
• Pre agreed rates and bespoke policy terms, removing uncertainty and delays in the placement process
• Coverage across both construction and operational phases, built for the full lifecycle of renewable assets

This means clients can secure insurance with unmatched efficiency: something that can make or break timelines in a sector where speed is a competitive advantage.

Supporting the UK’s net zero ambitions

The Climate Change Committee has recently emphasised the critical role insurance must play in enabling the transition to net zero. As renewable investment accelerates, demand for specialist risk transfer solutions is expected to grow significantly.

With the government’s ambitious target of 95 per cent low‑carbon electricity by 2030, a range of technologies are required to achieve this vision. There is positive movement towards this goal, considering 64 per cent of UK electricity came from low‑carbon sources in 2024, according to Knight Frank research. This does include nuclear sources though, so reliance on fossil fuels needs to be reduced in favour of more sustainable sources. 

By investing in smart underwriting and expanding this facility UK wide, Howden is contributing directly to that national mission, ensuring developers and asset owners have the tools they need to build resilient, future ready renewable infrastructure.

Renewable technology that accelerates 

Smart technology underpins the facility, enabling rapid quoting, consistent underwriting, and fast turnaround times. But technology isn’t replacing expertise; it’s elevating it.

The platform combines smart digital tools with deep sector knowledge, empowering clients to navigate complex renewable energy risks with speed, confidence, and clarity.

Collaboration with Aviva

Aviva’s involvement brings not only capital strength but also aligned values around accelerating sustainable energy development.

Aviva’s underwriting leadership reflects its commitment to supporting the UK’s low carbon transition, as the facility showcases how technology and specialist knowledge can come together to deliver real impact.

What does this mean for clients? 

• Confidence in the longevity and resilience of the facility
• Peace of mind that all involved are aligned behind the same sustainability goals
• A seamless experience backed by unified underwriting and broking teams
• Expanded cover to meet evolving client needs 

As the renewable  energy market evolves, so too does the facility. These additions strengthen the resilience of renewable projects and recognise the increasing complexity of the risk landscape. Recent enhancements announced in October 2025 include:

• Employers’ liability and public liability
• Sabotage and terrorism coverage

Together, these benefits help developers overcome barriers, accelerate projects, and navigate an increasingly competitive and complex landscape.