Assessment of the Acoustic Impact of Wind Farm Projects: Methodology and Case

Diego Gallego,María José Martínez-Sánchez,Mari Luz García-Lorenzo,Jose Molina-Ruiz

doi:10.4236/gep.2018.61007

Abstract

Wind energy is a clean renewable and its benefits are considered greater than the disadvantages. However, even though wind farms represent environmentally friendly projects, they frequently generate public resistance. Wind turbines are socially controversial because of their visual and acoustic impacts. The aim of this work was to design a methodology for the preliminary evaluation of potential acoustic impact of wind farms. Three steps have been proposed: identification, characterization and assessment of the acoustic impact during the construction, operation and decommissioning phase. Obtained results in the studied area suggested that at a maximum power, at 500 meters of wind turbines, noise level is lower than the reference level established in the legislation. In summary, proposed methodology could help to determine and to evaluate the best location for new wind farm projects. Proposed methodology could help to determine and to evaluate the best location for new wind farm projects. Moreover, this method could be used as a consulting tool for public organizations and private institutions, being quick, concise and clear. Obtained results for the studied wind farm project suggested that almost all the area showed noise levels lower than established background noise level.

Highlights

Obtained results in the studied area suggested that at a maximum power, at 500 meters of wind turbines, noise level is lower than the reference level established in the legislation
In order to assess the acoustic impact, we propose to evaluate three different possibilities: minimum power, intermediate power and maximum power
To carry out the study we propose to consider 1 sampling point/hectare in the studied area, randomly selected

Summary

Introduction

Wind energy has had the fastest growth rate among the renewable sources of energy over the past few decades due to its competitive price and mature technology. This has resulted in the widespread deployment of wind turbines in rural communities [2]. Noise can have an effect on the environment, and can be a material consideration in the determination of planning actions. Low noise-allowed maximum noise limit in natural reserves, gardens and parks. Allowed maximum noise level in industries Non-admissible.

Objectives

Methods

Findings

Conclusion