After a year of slashed demand in 2020, global oil demand surged in 2021 as the world began to recover from the coronavirus pandemic. In 2022, energy demand and commodity prices are still up, indicating that the energy industry is strong (source 3). Refineries are operating at approximately 95% capacity, and many companies would like to expand operations conservatively. But, like other industries all across the country, energy companies are struggling to find and hire qualified employees to fill positions. They’re also grappling with ongoing supply chain problems that make it difficult to obtain materials and purchase or repair vital equipment. As the insurance marketplace continues to contract, prices are rising for several product lines.

The stresses that had been building in the California earthquake market have begun to ease. The momentum of rate increases has slowed, although high-risk zones and older buildings remain challenging. Capacity has improved as carriers see a better risk-reward outlook after the significant rate increases of recent years. Higher deductibles are part of the changing landscape, due to pressure from carriers, but also as a means for buyers to manage premium costs. In an evolving market, working with a knowledgeable broker with broad access to markets and in-house modeling expertise can help buyers achieve better results.

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in decreased energy production and demand in 2020. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), it will likely take years for the U.S. to return to 2019 levels of consumption. While it’s anticipated that the United States will continue to export more energy than it imports through 2050, recovery will take time and the energy insurance market is feeling the pinch (source 1).

Will premiums increase? Are terms and conditions changing? What lines of business have limited markets? Which lines of business have excess capacity? Here’s what clients can expect in the marketplace for 2021 in a quick and easy to read reference guide.

Will premiums increase? Are terms and conditions changing? What lines of business have limited markets? Which lines of business have excess capacity? Here’s what clients can expect in the marketplace for 2020 in a quick and easy to read reference guide.