Willis, a WTW business, has launched Digital Infrastructure Protector, an end-to-end lifecycle solution designed for data centre owners and operators. The solution combines integrated policy coverage during both construction and operations phases with enhanced risk management to assist data centre owners, operators, contractors, and hyperscalers in minimising risk while maximising operational and financial resiliency. The launch is the latest in a series of innovations by Willis to deliver customised risk solutions that address the unique needs of data centres, from initial funding to steady-state operations, amid an increasingly complex risk ecosystem. Alastair Swift, head of global specialties at Willis, says: “The pace at which the AI boom is accelerating data centre construction is creating unprecedented complexity, and traditional insurance solutions are no longer sufficient. As a client-led, data-driven organisation, Willis has developed this solution to respond directly to those challenges”. Tom Grandmaison, chief client officer for Willis construction, adds: “Digital Infrastructure Protector provides clients with the right limit, the right terms and conditions and the most efficient price for each individual project, giving them the power to not only minimise risk but also secure the most from their investment”. Key features of the solution include integrated policy coverage developed in collaboration with Zurich. Digital Infrastructure Protector provides access to streamlined coverage with more than US$3 billion in capacity, bringing building, operational property, marine, and cargo exposures together under a single policy. Willis and Zurich experts will utilise analytics and data validation to assess gaps in coverage and evaluate the appropriate amount of insurance for specific needs, aiming to minimise the risk of overinsurance for greater cost efficiency. The offering leverages an eight-point digital infrastructure risk framework to provide clients with a holistic view of the full spectrum of data centre risk, including systemic and emerging risks. This includes continued guidance and risk mitigation as projects move to upgrade their technology. Clients will also have access to the newly formed Global Digital Infrastructure Group, led by Swift. This cross-functional team unites experts across sectors including construction, energy, climate, technology, cyber, real estate, and supply chain. Digital Infrastructure Protector is now available to clients globally.
