Gas turbine noise mitigation for a residential development

Abstract

A residential development was proposed adjacent to a gas turbine electrical power production peaking facility. To determine compliance with local standards, noise levels and frequency content were measured at reference locations under summer and winter conditions. The Environ. Noise Model (ENM) was calibrated on the basis of the reference noise level data, and noise measurement results at other locations were compared to the ENM predictions. The measurement results were also used to determine the effective noise source height for calculations of shielding. The ENM was then used to predict noise levels at the development site. To evaluate methods of obtaining compliance with the standards, the ENM was used to assess the effects of berms, walls, and grading on the development site, and an enclosure for the gas turbines. Recommendations were then prepared for noise abatement and mitigation measures, including the use of an enclosure, an onsite berm, and reduction of low frequency noise.