DEME announced its intention to enter the Japanese market through JOM in 2021. DEME Offshore owns 49% of the company and Penta-Ocean Construction 51%. The company also announced at the time that Sea Challenger would be  relocated to Japan and will be brought under the Japanese flag, having first been upgraded, preparing it for the first round of offshore wind projects in Japan.

The contract awarded by Oga Katagami Akita Offshore Green Energy LLC covers engineering work and offshore installation of a total of 21 wind turbines.

Working on behalf of Oga Katagami Akita Offshore Green Energy LLC, JOM will install 21 Vestas V236-15 MW turbines, this being the first deployment of 15 MW-class turbines in Japan, and the first use of turbines of this size outside Europe and China.

Installation will be carried out by the jack-up installation vessel Sea Challenger, which will operate under the Japanese flag by the time offshore work commences. Offshore work is due to take place in the second half of 2027.

DEME general manager Asia Pacific Frank Jonckheere said, “This first contract confirms the fact that JOM has become fully operational and is well-placed to undertake offshore wind projects in Japan.

“The deployment of Sea Challenger for the installation of 15-MW-class turbines demonstrates the strength of our approach, bringing together proven installation expertise, dedicated assets, and strong local partnerships.”