Renewables projects are on the rise and at Accura Consulting, we have first-hand experience of some of the key issues they face.

Over the course of the next decade we will no doubt see a worldwide increase in the construction of renewables projects due to growing concerns around energy security and climate change, funded by government stimulus packages and private investment.

Like other major construction projects, with increased pressure on the industry, time and cost disputes will undoubtedly occur.

Renewables projects should be relatively straightforward to design, construct and commission but delays and cost overruns frequently happen.

Today, I’ll share our run down of the top ten issues we’ve seen across renewables projects. In no particular order:

1.  Delay to site access

2.  Unknown ground conditions

3.  Logistical constraints

4.  Drainage issues

5.  Skilled labour shortages

6.  Other contractor interface issues

7.  Commissioning issues

8.  Grid connection issues

9.  Weather issues

10.  Wildlife

Whatever the cause of delay, it’s important to understand the facts and identify the Cause, Effect, and Entitlement. To support that, we recommend:

• Producing robust, fully resourced programs with a true baseline which is correctly updated every week

• Understanding the contract obligations, including limitations to their scope

• Sending all notices as per the prerequisites and within the timeframes stipulated in the contract

• Keeping daily records of all work being undertaken and submit them to the client

At Accura Consulting, we have worked on renewables projects across the world and have experienced a variety of delay events. Our team of experts work with clients to create a tailored solution to problems.

To find out how we can help, get in touch.