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Noise Research Cover Up - Sound Guidance on Wind Farm Noise Needed Now | 14 Dec 2009

With the revelation¹ yesterday that Government commissioned research recommended a reduction in acceptable noise levels from wind farm developments in 2006, Environmental Protection UK² repeat their call to Ministers³ to provide an up to date method for predicting and assessing noise impacts from an industry that, to date, is being hindered by disagreements over the extent and nature of potential impacts.


Noise specialists have 'adapted' the outdated Government recommended guidance on assessing noise from wind turbines⁴ (drawn up when machines were a third of the height they are today) adding to confusion for all those involved in planning applications. To date, Government have refused to acknowledge evidence that this does alter the potential for noise impacts.

"The research reported today that noise specialists recommended a reduction in the amount of noise acceptable from wind turbines three years ago demonstrates that this industry has, to date, been treated as a 'special case', "said Mary Stevens, policy officer at Environmental Protection UK

"While we fully support the deployment of renewable energy, we believe, that like any major development, the siting and operation of wind farms must be carried out with full regard to any significant and lasting impacts on local environmental quality and health. Should instances where impacts are unavoidable arise, a compensatory procedure should be in place. A swift and thorough revision of noise assessment guidance is needed now, to enable the UK to develop a renewables infrastructure based on getting the balance right between local and wider interests. Action now will avoid further costly delays in decision making."

More: Mary Stevens, Policy Officer 01273 878781 / 07730 061850

1. Sunday Times, Officials Cover Up Wind Turbine Noise Report
2. Environmental Protection UK is the charity supported by pollution control professionals. We have been working for a cleaner, quieter, healthier world since 1898.
3. See our correspondence with DECC
4. Agreement about relevant factors for noise assessment from wind energy projects – Bowdler et al, Acoustics Bulletin – March/April 2009