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Powered by Marsh FINPRO: Weather risks & capital access for low-carbon initiatives

This episode of Powered by Marsh FINPRO features climate risk, sustainability strategies, and the vital role of insurance in the energy transition.

With the growing frequency of extreme weather events and shifting regulatory requirements, organizations must prioritize clear reporting and strategic planning to manage climate-related risks. Additionally, as stakeholders demand greater accountability and transparency, the potential for litigation over unverified sustainability claims – sometimes called “greenwashing” or “greenhushing” – looms large.

In this episode of Powered by Marsh FINPRO, hosts Grace Brighter and Sarah Baldys sit down with Amy Barnes, Head of Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy at Marsh McLennan, to explore the potential challenges and opportunities presented by the energy transition. They discuss the complexities of climate risk, the pivotal role of insurance in supporting companies as they transition to low-carbon technologies, and the need for businesses to harden their assets against extreme weather events.

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Key takeaways

Climate risk should be integrated into corporate strategy

Executives should prioritize the integration of climate and sustainability considerations into their strategic planning and risk analysis. This includes understanding the dual focus on decarbonization and adaptation to extreme weather events.

Organizations must harden assets against extreme weather

Businesses need to recognize the increasing frequency of extreme weather events and their potential impacts on operations, assets, and workforce. Understanding the interdependencies between climate change and ecosystem services is crucial.

Insurance can be leveraged as a strategic hedge against risk

Insurance is a critical tool that can provide financial backing for innovative low-carbon technologies and adaptation initiatives. Engaging with insurance partners to understand risk pricing and coverage options can enhance a company's resilience.

Podcast

Powered by Marsh FINPRO podcast series

Learn more about our podcast series that examines the opportunities and challenges in the energy and power industry due to the energy transition and how to manage the resulting management liability risks.

About our speakers

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Grace Brighter

Assistant Vice President

  • United States

Grace Brighter is an Assistant Vice President within Marsh’s FINPRO Placement Team. She is responsible for working with insurance carriers and negotiating competitive coverage for her clients.

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Sarah Baldys

Senior Vice President, FINPRO Power & Renewables Leader

  • United States

Sarah is a Senior Vice President at Marsh where she leads a national team of FINPRO colleagues with specialized expertise in the Energy and Power sector.

Amy Barnes

Amy Barnes

Global Head of Energy & Power, Marsh

  • Global

Amy Barnes heads Marsh’s climate and sustainability strategy. Prior to this she held a number of leadership roles with Marsh’s global energy, power, and renewables business. She has a respected depth and breadth of experience assisting some of the largest and most complex companies manage risks.