Difficult By Design: Why Disputes Emerge From Energy Construction Projects

The energy sector is one of the biggest sources of construction disputes thanks to the size and complexity of the projects involved. Here, we look at how common practices tend to lead to disputes and consider what can be done to avoid them.

Large energy projects are notorious for difficult designs. Often, the energy generation solutions are innovative, the materials and technologies involved are new and the local geography is challenging.

In many cases, the technology earmarked for the project moves on during the construction phase, necessitating changes to the project plan.

The specialist equipment needed to complete projects is also particularly vulnerable to supply chain disruption, caused by events such as international conflicts, natural disasters, sanctions and pandemics.