Translating Geotechnical Risk in Financial Terms

Abstract

Practitioners know that geotechnical uncertainty never ends until a tunnel is completed. In some cases, uncertainty extends into operation. The present note summarizes relevant project financing elements such as viability, risk allocation, and bankability. Main financial instruments for different project structures are outlined, highlighting their likely ranges of application. Two key instruments for managing project risks, the Geotechnical Baseline Report, and the Project Risk Register, are presented and their joint use illustrated. The importance of carrying over uncertainty along the entire project cycle (planning, construction, and operation) is elaborated by using a concept borrowed from the hydropower sector.

The content of this paper reflects the experience of the author and, as such, does not necessarily represent policies or practices of the Salini-Impregilo Group.