kWh Analytics released its 7th annual Solar Risk Assessment (SRA), a comprehensive report designed to provide an objective, data-driven evaluation of solar and battery energy storage systems (BESS) risk. The annual report includes contributions from academia, technology, financing and insurance leaders in the solar energy and BESS industries.
This year’s report arrives at a pivotal moment for the renewable energy industry as solar and wind energy production have become imperative to the U.S. energy mix, and new renewable energy deployment shatters expectations and records. At the same time, these assets face challenges from intensified climate impacts, operational and safety concerns and increased cybersecurity threats.
“As renewable energy becomes the backbone of the electrical grid, ensuring system resilience is no longer optional — it’s imperative,” said Jason Kaminsky, CEO at kWh Analytics. “Keeping these assets operational requires unprecedented collaboration among asset owners, operators, financiers, insurers, brokers, and manufacturers. We are grateful for the valuable research and articles by this year’s Solar Risk Assessment contributors, who are helping to establish higher industry standards required to build infrastructure that withstands heightened risks.”
Key takeaways from the 2025 report include:
- Hail continues to represent one of the most severe financial risks. Implementing proper module selection with thicker glass and advanced stow protocols that allow for steeper tilt angles can significantly reduce damage probability during severe storms.
- While the emergence of AI technologies presents powerful opportunities for renewables, improperly trained models can give false results. Data quality will be imperative to incorporating these tools into the industry.
- Cyber threat activity targeting renewable energy infrastructure is growing, necessitating enhanced protection strategies.
- Quality inspections of energy storage systems identify issues with fire suppression systems and thermal management components, highlighting the critical need for improved manufacturing and monitoring systems.
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