Environmental Impact » Noise
The noise assessment carried out considered potential noise effects from construction activities (including traffic) and operational noise on nearby residential properties. Strict guidelines are in place regarding the permitted noise levels at properties near wind farms, and these have been and will be adhered to in order to ensure that there are no adverse effects on local amenity.
Existing local background noise readings were taken from a number of local properties. The monitoring locations were agreed with Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Environmental Health Officer. Wind speed and direction data were collected during the noise monitoring period from the on site meteorological mast. The noise data collected influenced the design of the wind farm to ensure that noise at surrounding residential properties is at acceptable levels.
Below a threshold wind speed, a wind turbine will not operate and a brake is applied to the rotor. This means on a calm day with little background noise, there will be no noise impact.
The table below shows the average decibel levels (dB(A)) of other everyday situations.
dB(A) |
Description |
140 |
Threshold of pain |
120 |
Jet take off at 50 m |
100 |
Maximum noise levels on an underground train platform |
80 |
Kerbside of a busy urban street |
60 |
Busy general office |
40 |
Residential area at night |
35-45 |
Wind farm at 350 m |
20 |
Background in a TV and recording studio |
0 |
Threshold of hearing |
