Small modular reactors (SMRs) are increasingly being considered as a means to advance energy security. These compact reactors can also help meet decarbonization and net-zero goals as well as growing power demands from data centers, remote communities, and major industries.
As demand for SMRs continues to grow, it is important for developers, lenders, and insurers to understand the complex construction process involved, which requires coordination among multiple parties and careful management of liability transfers. Early engagement of risk engineering and insurance professionals is critical to effectively address these complexities and support successful project deployment.
In this episode of Risk in Context, Amy Barnes, Marsh's Global Head of Energy & Power, speaks with Jim Palaia, US and Canada Nuclear Energy Leader, Everett Hansen, US Nuclear Leader, and Ailish Foster, a senior vice president within Marsh’s Energy and Power Practice in London. They discuss why SMRs matter within the energy ecosystem and the opportunities and risks that risk managers should be aware of in their pursuit of reliability, sustainability, and resilience.
Head of Energy & Power, Head of Climate & Sustainability Strategy, Marsh Risk
United Kingdom
Amy Barnes is Marsh’s Global Head of Energy & Power and also heads Marsh’s Climate and Sustainability Strategy. Prior to this, she held several leadership roles with Marsh’s global energy, power, and renewables businesses. She has a respected depth and breadth of experience assisting some of the largest and most complex companies in managing risks.
North American Nuclear Energy Leader
United States
Jim Palaia is Marsh’s North American Nuclear Energy Leader. Based in Connecticut, he is responsible for providing nuclear industry leadership and support, serving in an advocacy role with nuclear insurers and regulators, and assisting with program strategy for nuclear clients worldwide.
Senior Vice President, Energy & Power Practice
United Kingdom
Ailish Foster is a client executive in the Power & Renewables team, based in Marsh’s Norwich office and reporting into Marsh London. She is responsible for leading and coordinating service delivery to clients, focusing on those in the nuclear sector and placing insurance policies with nuclear markets.
US Nuclear Energy Leader, US Energy & Power
United States
Everett Hansen is Marsh’s US Nuclear Energy Leader and a Specialty Associate Client Executive, specializing in risk management and insurance for the nuclear industry, fusion energy, hydrogen, and CCUS, with prior naval nuclear engineering experience.
Article,Featured insight
03/03/2026
