Panel – Permission to grow: community acceptance, permitting and political risk

The rise in community opposition has made permitting, political and reputational risks key considerations for investors, lenders and insurers when assessing long-term project viability. A recent industry analysis found that AI data centre projects worth more than US$170bn were delayed or cancelled following community opposition, directly influencing project timelines, valuations and the ability to deploy capital. In a market where growth depends on securing both power and permission, social licence is emerging as a critical factor in determining which projects move forwards and which do not.

• How are insurers, lenders and investors pricing political, permitting and community-related risks, and what does this mean for project financing and insurability?
• How can developers demonstrate tangible local, environmental and economic benefits to build trust and secure long-term community support?
• How should investors assess ESG, climate, water and energy-related concerns as part of infrastructure due diligence?

For information on how to attend The Digital Infrastructure Finance & Investment Summit, please email: louise.burrett@techoraco.com