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Report

Contract Risk Management 2026

Driven by AI, cloud and high-performance computing, the expansion of digital infrastructure is creating substantial opportunity and complexity.

The rapid expansion of digital infrastructure

Driven by AI, cloud and high-performance computing, the expansion of digital infrastructure is creating substantial opportunity and complexity. To deliver projects at scale, businesses must prioritise disciplined contract risk management alongside robust power strategies and clearly defined Service Level Agreements (SLAs). Elevating these issues to board level and engaging insurers and lenders early are essential to protect capital and keep projects on track.

We attended the Datacloud Global Congress in Cannes this year and presented a workshop where we delved more into this topic. 

Here are some key takeaways from our thought leadership:

Particle with big center

Lock down your power strategy:

Confirm the route to power, connection timing and who bears delivery, curtailment or “green” supply risk - these factors materially affect project viability and lender confidence.

Checklist with final checkmark

Define SLAs that reflect technical realities:

SLAs must set clear boundaries, measurement metrics and enforceability for operational conditions (temperature, humidity, uptime), as breaches can trigger financial penalties or termination.
Building with large doorway

Tailor risk allocation and insurance to the data-centre model:

Data centres vary widely (hyperscale, neo-cloud, colocation). Insurance programmes and contractual allocation should be customised, not one-size-fits-all.

Two hands shaking firmly

Involve capital providers and insurers early:

Early engagement with lenders and insurers helps align documentation, satisfy capital requirements and introduce emerging SLA-linked insurance solutions that mitigate financial exposure.

To request a copy of Marsh’s thought leadership, please fill in the form below

Contact the team

Sam Tiltman

Digital Infrastructure Industry Leader, UK, and Technology Industry Growth Leader, UK

  • United Kingdom

Michael Mathews

Global Digital Infrastructure Practice Leader

  • United States

Dereck Wischmeyer

Senior Advisor, Global Digital Infrastructure, Marsh

  • United States

Kate Fairhead

Digital Infrastructure Leader, UK Construction, Infrastructure & Surety Practice, Marsh Specialty

  • United Kingdom

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