In a significant step toward supporting the global transition to renewable energy, we are making rapid progress on our latest initiative: the BIMCO WINDSEACON contract. Designed specifically for the offshore wind sector, this new standard agreement aims to streamline operations and reduce legal complexity in wind turbine installation projects.
A dedicated subcommittee comprising vessel owners, charterers, wind turbine manufacturers, legal experts, and P&I club representatives convened in London this March for two days of intensive drafting and discussed the outstanding issues such as site data, area of operation, surveys and crew which will serve as the foundation for a contract that will serve both as a time charter and a project-specific agreement for offshore wind turbine installation.
Meeting Industry Needs
The offshore wind industry has long relied on a patchwork of contracts, often blending elements from construction and SUPPLYTIME agreements. This has led to inefficiencies and prolonged negotiations. WINDSEACON addresses this gap by offering a balanced, commercially viable framework tailored to the unique demands of offshore wind operations.
“WINDSEACON is not just another contract—it’s a response to a clear market need,” said Pernille Korsager, Chairperson of the WINDSEACON subcommittee. “It’s about giving the industry a tool that reflects the complexities of offshore wind projects.”
Key Features
The contract will follow BIMCO’s familiar box layout and include clauses specific to wind turbine installation, such as:
- Charter period and vessel delivery, redelivery and demobilization
- Off-hire provisions
- Surveys, audits and inspections
- Master and Crew
- Crane operations
- Site data requirements
- Standard BIMCO boilerplate clauses
These elements are designed to reduce negotiation time and simplify claims management, ultimately improving project efficiency.
Looking Ahead
The draft contract is expected to be reviewed at BIMCO’s Documentary Committee meeting in October 2025. Until then, the subcommittee will continue refining the document through online collaboration.
As the offshore wind sector continues to expand, WINDSEACON is poised to become a cornerstone of contract management in this vital industry.
You can follow the progress of this project and all our other current projects on the What We Are Working On page.
