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SgurrEnergy Linfairn Wind Farm Addendum Chapter A11: Noise and Vibration
14/7048/001/GLA/O/R/001 Revision B1 Page 1 of 33
Certified to ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001
A11. Noise and Vibration
11.1 Introduction
Noise can have an effect on the environment and on the quality of life enjoyed by
individuals and communities. This assessment considers the noise impact at noise
sensitive receptors (NSRs) through the construction, operation and decommissioning of
the Linfairn Wind Farm (“the Project”). The assessment has been carried out by
SgurrEnergy Ltd.
For this Addendum, new background noise data was gathered which informed the
assessment of the revised Project layout. This Addendum chapter therefore
supersedes ES Chapter 11.
11.2 Scope of the Assessment
11.2.1 Study Area
The study area considered in this chapter of the Addendum considers the likely
significant effects in terms of noise of the Project wind turbine generators (WTGs) at
NSRs. This chapter provides details on the assessment methodology; the baseline
conditions currently existing at the Project site and surroundings; the likely significant
noise effects during the construction, operation and decommissioning phases of the
Project; the mitigation measures required to prevent, reduce or offset any significant
adverse effects; and the likely residual effects after these measures have been
employed.
Construction noise effects are normally of a temporary nature and result from both
moving and static sources. Assessment allows the temporary impact of construction
noise to be understood and for suitable mitigation measures to be identified to minimise
any potential adverse effects.
When operational, WTGs emit two types of noise – mechanical noise and aerodynamic
noise. The main sources of mechanical noise are from internal components housed
within the nacelle, such as gearbox and generator. Mechanical noise from a modern
WTG is negligible as designs are highly refined. Aerodynamic noise occurs from the
movement of the blades passing through the air. At high wind speeds, that aerodynamic
noise is usually masked by the increasing sound of wind blowing through trees and
around buildings, and turbulent noise within the air itself. The level of masking
determines the perceived audibility of the wind farm. The noise impact assessment
establishes the relationship between WTG noise and the natural masking noise and
assesses levels against established standards.
SgurrEnergy Linfairn Wind Farm Addendum Chapter A11: Noise and Vibration
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11.2.2 Scoping and Consultation
The initial Section 36 application was submitted to the Scottish Government Energy
Consents and Deployment Unit (ECDU) on 27 September 2013 with responses
received in November / December 2013. Set out below is a summary of relevant
consultation responses with details of how these have been taken into consideration
within the revised measurements and assessments presented here.
Table A11-1: Summary of Consultation Responses
Consultee Summary of
Response Comment / Action
Relevant Section
of This Chapter
South
Ayrshire
Council
Environmental
Health Officer
(Fiona Grant)
The proposed
monitoring locations
and the intended
monitoring periods were
confirmed during a
telephone call between
SgurrEnergy personnel
and the South Ayrshire
Council Environmental
Health Officer. It was
agreed upon that four
receptors would be
considered, these being
Balbeg Cottage/Balbeg
House, Genoch
Cottage, Linfairn and
Tairlaw Farm, though
the precise location of
the instruments would
be determined (and
agreed) on the
installation day.
The EHO requested
that she accompany
SgurrEnergy personnel
on site when deploying
the equipment to agree
the locations and assist
with any queries
residents may have.
The installation of the
noise monitoring
instruments was carried
out by SgurrEnergy
personnel and overseen
by the South Ayrshire
Council EHO at each of
the agreed upon
monitoring locations on
15 October 2014. The
locations were deemed
mutually satisfactory by
the EHO and
SgurrEnergy personnel.
Monitoring locations were
agreed upon as:
Balbeg Cottage.
Genoch Cottage.
Linfairn Farm.
Tairlaw Farm.
Section 11.4
(Baseline Data
Collection)
SgurrEnergy Linfairn Wind Farm Addendum Chapter A11: Noise and Vibration
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Consultee Summary of
Response Comment / Action
Relevant Section
of This Chapter
Save Straiton
for Scotland
(SSfS)
Community
Group
ETSU-R-97 does not
fulfil the requirement of
a description of the
likely significant effects
in the EU Directive.
ETSU-R-97 is the method
approved by the UK and
Scottish Governments.
Section 11.3.1
(Regulatory and
Policy Context)
For example (in relation
to the above comment)
at night the lower
ETSU- R-97 limit is
43dB. At a wind speed
of around 6m/s when
turbines might have
reached more or less
their maximum noise
output they could be
running at this limit of
43dB. At one site,
perhaps near a main
road system, the
background noise level
could be 38dB and so
the margin of turbine
noise over background
noise is 5dB. At another
site the background
noise might be 28dB
and the margin 15dB.
Clearly the significance
of the impact is more in
the second case than in
the first but ETSU-R-97
does not take this into
account.
The 43dB limit is
reiterated in the Institute
of Acoustics’ (IOA’s) good
practice guide (GPG),
issued May 2013, which
has been endorsed by the
Scottish Government, as
well as by DECC.
Section 11.3.1
(Regulatory and
Policy Context)
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Consultee Summary of
Response Comment / Action
Relevant Section
of This Chapter
The background noise
levels are surprisingly
high for the area, which
I have visited, and are
not representative of
typical background
noise levels likely to be
found at local
residences in such a
rural location.
New background noise
measurements were
carried out for the revised
layout of the Project in
October 2014. The
background noise levels
gathered are generally
similar to, or higher than,
those previously gathered
in 2013.
Section 11.4.1
(Baseline Data
Collection - Current
Conditions)
One of the reasons for
the high background
noise level is almost
certainly that the wind
speed was not
measured on the wind
farm site. It was
measured at Grid
Reference
37929/01165. This is at
a height of about 182m
AOD compared with the
nearest turbine which is
at about 220m AOD and
the height of most of the
turbines at around 250
to 300m AOD. It is also
over 600m from the
nearest turbine.
The wind speeds at this
location are likely to be
less than those on the
wind farm site and this
would result in a higher
background noise level
curve.
A lidar was deployed on
site in the location of the
proposed WTGs during
the same time as noise
equipment was installed
at the four receptors.
The previous wind speed
data gathered have not
been used for this
assessment and therefore
this comment is no longer
applicable.
Section 11.4.1
(Baseline Data
Collection - Current
Conditions)
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Relevant Section
of This Chapter
From the photographs
some of the locations
appear to be in exposed
locations and not, as
required in ETSU-R-97,
in garden areas
available for rest and
recreation.
The background noise
measurements, as stated
above, were redone for
this Addendum with the
locations agreed in
advance by the EHO and
during an accompanied
site visit for installation of
equipment.
Section 11.4.1
(Baseline Data
Collection - Current
Conditions)
At Little Garroch, there
appears to be a change
in the sensitivity of the
equipment after the visit
of 06 September. This
results in levels of more
than 10dB greater in the
second period
compared with the first.
As above. This comment
is no longer applicable.
Section 11.4.1
(Baseline Data
Collection - Current
Conditions)
At Dyke there is strong
banding of noise and
this appears to be due
to water in a nearby
watercourse producing
high levels after rainfall.
In accordance with
ETSU-R-97 this period
of water noise should
have been removed
(not just periods when it
was raining).
New background noise
measurements have been
made and great care
taken to minimise noise
from watercourses.
Locations were agreed by
the EHO.
Section 11.4.1
(Baseline Data
Collection - Current
Conditions)
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Consultee Summary of
Response Comment / Action
Relevant Section
of This Chapter
At Linfairn there is also
banding, some of which
appears to be water
noise but other high
noise levels may be
activity typical of a
working farm,
particularly during the
night and possibly
including plant or
machinery.
As above. This comment
is no longer applicable.
Section 11.4.1
(Baseline Data
Collection - Current
Conditions)
At Tairlaw the levels are
similarly high day and
night but do not show
obvious signs of plant
and machinery. Again
this is a working farm.
The graphs in the ES
state that the dawn
chorus has been
removed. However, I
cannot see any
significant evidence of
dawn chorus and,
indeed it is unlikely in
such a location at this
time of year.
As above. This comment
is no longer applicable.
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I believe there are a few
properties that would be
considered as having
concave ground (see
4.3.9 of the IOAGPG)
from some turbines and
would therefore have
higher noise levels than
quoted in the table. This
appears to apply to
Craigencallie and
Craigard from the three
nearest turbines.
Noted. This has now
been applied.
Section 11.6.3
(Description and
Evaluation of Effects
- Operation)
In Appendix 1 I have set
out some omissions,
errors and clarifications
to the applicant’s list of
properties. I have also
supplied Table 1, a
table of properties I
believe to be within the
35dB noise contour.
There are 34 such
properties of which, I
understand, four have
occupants who are
financially involved.
The names of properties
used in this assessment
have been updated.
Section 11.3.3
(Assessment
Methodology -
Operational)
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In the absence of what I
believe to be reliable
background noise levels
I have based my own
assessment on the
average of all the
background noise
measurements carried
out for Assel Valley.
In Tables 6 and 7 I have
set out the margin of
turbine noise over
background noise. It
can be seen that, during
the day 12 properties
will suffer a major loss
of amenity and others a
significant loss. At night
22 locations (27
properties) will suffer a
major loss of amenity
and all the others on my
list a significant loss.
New background noise
measurements were
carried out for the revised
layout of the Project in
October 2014. The
background noise levels
gathered are generally
similar to, or higher than,
those previously gathered
in 2013.
Section 11.4.1
(Baseline Data
Collection - Current
Conditions)
11.3 Assessment Methodology
11.3.1 Regulatory and Policy Context
An overview of key guidance with respect to construction and operational noise is
outlined below, and further details of legislation, policy and guidance specifically for
operational noise (ETSU-R-971) are set out in Section 11.3.3.
1 ETSU-R-97 (2007) The Assessment and Rating of Noise from Wind Farms, ETSU for the Department of Trade and
Industry
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The effect of construction noise has been assessed in accordance with British Standard
(BS) 5228 Part 1: 2009 Code of Practice for Basic Information and Procedures for Noise
and Vibration Control2. BS 5228 provides best practice guidance on the control of noise
from construction activities.
Noise propagation has been modelled in accordance with International Standard ISO
9613-2: 1996 Acoustics – Attenuation of Sound Propagation Outdoors – Part 2: General
Method of Calculation3.
PAN 1/2011: Planning and Noise4 provides advice on how the planning system can be
used to reduce the adverse impact of noise without placing unreasonable restrictions on
development or adding unduly to the costs and administrative burdens of business.
The Scottish Government’s online planning advice5 and in particular, the page on
onshore WTGs, recommends the framework set out in the report The Assessment and
Rating of Noise from Wind Farms (ETSU-R-97) for the measurement of WTG noise. It
gives indicative noise levels calculated to offer a reasonable degree of protection to
those living near to WTGs, without placing unreasonable restrictions on wind farm
development. It also states that well-specified and well-designed wind farms should be
located so that increases in ambient noise levels around noise sensitive receptors are
kept to acceptable levels in relation to existing background noise. This will normally be
achieved through good design of the WTGs and through allowing sufficient distance
between the WTGs and any existing noise-sensitive development so that noise from the
wind farm will not normally be significant. Noise levels from WTGs are generally low,
and under most operating conditions it is likely that WTG noise would be completely
masked by wind-generated background noise.
The impact of operational noise has been assessed in accordance with ETSU-R-97,
taking cognisance of the most recent good practice guide (GPG) of the Institute of
Acoustics6, and Supplementary Guidance Notes7. This is acknowledged by the Scottish
Government's online guidance on onshore wind turbines:
2 British Standard 5228: Parts 1 and 2 (2009) Code of practice for noise and vibration control on construction and open
sites, BSI, 2009
3 International Standard ISO 9613-2: 1996, Acoustics – Attenuation of Sound during Propagation Outdoors
4 Planning Advice Note 1/2011, Planning and Noise, http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Resource/Doc/343210/0114180.pdf,
(Scottish Government, last viewed 11 September 2014)
5 Renewable Energy, http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Built-Environment/planning/National-Planning-
Policy/themes/renewables (Scottish Government, last viewed 01 July 2013)
6 A Good Practice Guide to the Application of ETSU-R-97 for the Assessment and Rating of Wind Turbine Noise, Institute
of Acoustics, May 2013
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"The Scottish Government accepts that the guide represents current industry good
practice".
11.3.2 Construction
Sound power levels of noise sources associated with the construction activities are
taken from BS 5228. Noise is dominated first by the construction of the access track
and subsequently by the WTG foundation excavation and piling. The aggregate level of
quasi-static noise from the machinery involved in the access track construction, taking
account of duty time, is 115dB(A) (Table A11-2). The aggregate level of static noise
from the machinery involved in the foundation construction, taking account of assumed
duty time, is 115 dB(A) (Table A11-3). Heavy vehicle noise is taken as a worst-case of
an unladen dump truck, producing a sound pressure level (SPL) of 87dB(A) at 10m,
equivalent to a sound power level of 115dB(A), assuming hemispherical spreading to
10m.
7 A Good Practice Guide to the Application of ETSU-R-97 for the Assessment and Rating of Wind Turbine Noise,
Supplementary Guidance Notes 1-5, November 2013 - September 2014
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Table A11-2: Access Road Quasi-Static & Compound Static Plant Utilisation
(Sound Power are in decibels relative to 10-12
Watts)
Plant Item No.
Utilisation BS 5228
reference
LAeq at
10m, dB
SWL
% dB(A)
Excavator 1 50% Table C2 No.
19 77 105
Transporter 1 100% Table C2 No.
27 80 108
Dump truck
(tipping) 1 20%
Table C2 No.
30 79 107
Dump truck
(empty) 1 40%
Table C2 No.
31 87 115
Grader 1 50% Table C6 No.
31 86 114
Roller 1 10% Table C2 No.
37 79 107
Equivalent ∑ 115 dB(A) SWL
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Table A11-3: WTG Foundation Excavation and Construction Static Plant
Utilisation (Sound Power are in decibels relative to 10-12
Watts)
Plant Item No Off
Utilisation BS 5228
reference LAeq at 10m, dB
SWL
% dB(A)
Excavator 1 50% Table C2 No. 19
77 105
CPA piling rig 1 20% Defra Table
3 No. 21 79 107
Auxiliary crane 1 20% Defra Table
3 No. 48 76 104
Concrete truck 1 20% Defra Table
3 No. 27 79 107
Transporter 1 10% Table C2 No. 27
80 108
Dump truck (tipping)
1 20% Table C2 No. 30
79 107
Dump truck (empty)
1 40% Table C2 No. 31
87 115
Grader 1 50% Table C6 No. 31
86 114
Roller 1 10% Table C2 No. 37
79 107
Excavator 1 50% Table C2 No. 19
77 105
CPA piling rig 1 20% Defra Table
3 No. 21 79 107
Auxiliary crane 1 20% Defra Table
3 No. 48 76 104
Concrete truck 1 20% Defra Table
3 No. 27 79 107
Transporter 1 10% Table C2 No. 27
80 108
Equivalent ∑ 115 dB(A) SWL
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There are no legal limits on the noise received at nearby NSRs, only a variety of
sources of guidance. Thus it is necessary to agree criteria with local authorities. The
limiting criteria for construction noise, shown in Table A11-4 have been taken from
BS 5228. Any predicted excesses over these limits will be considered to have significant
effect.
It has been assumed for the purposes of this assessment that the construction activities
will generally take place between 0700 and 1900 Monday to Friday and 0700 to 1300
on Saturdays. WTG assembly may take place at night, but over a relatively short time,
and neighbours will be kept informed well in advance. There will be no working without
prior agreement on Sundays or bank holidays.
Table A11-4: Construction Noise Level Limits at Noise Sensitive Receptors
Period Hours LAeq (Work Period)
Monday to Friday
0700-1900 65
1900-2300 55
2300-0700 45
Saturday
0700-1300 65
1300-2300 55
2300-0700 45
Sunday
0700-2300 55
2300-0700 45
Unattended Plant - 45
11.3.3 Operational
The assessment of operational noise effects was undertaken following the guidance of
ETSU-R-97. This recommends a methodology for measuring prevailing background
noise at a wind farm site and for defining operational noise thresholds. Details of the
ETSU guidance are set out below.
The current practice on controlling wind farm noise imposes noise limits at the NSRs.
Noise limits should be applied to external locations and should apply only to those areas
frequently used for relaxation or activities for which a quiet environment is highly
desirable.
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Noise limits set relative to the background noise are more appropriate than fixed limits
in the majority of cases. Generally, the noise limits should be set relative to the existing
background noise at the NSRs and the limits should reflect the variation in both WTG
source noise and background noise with wind speed.
Separate noise limits should apply for day-time and for night-time as during the night the
protection of external amenity becomes less important and the emphasis should be on
preventing sleep disturbance. Absolute noise limits and margins above background
should relate to the cumulative effect of all WTGs in the area contributing to the noise
received at the properties in question. Any existing WTGs should not be considered as
part of the prevailing background noise.
The LA90,10min descriptor should be used for both the background noise and the wind
farm noise, and when setting limits it should be borne in mind that the LA90,10min of the
wind farm is likely to be about 1.5-2.5dB(A) less than the LAeq measured over the same
period. The use of the LA90,10min descriptor for wind farm noise allows reliable
measurements to be made without corruption from relatively loud, transitory noise
events from other sources.
For single WTGs or wind farms with very large separation distances between the WTGs
and the nearest properties, a simplified noise condition may be suitable. If the noise is
limited to a LA90,10min of 35dB(A) up to wind speeds of 10 m/s at 10m height, then this
condition alone would offer sufficient protection of amenity, and background noise
surveys would be unnecessary.
In this case, the construction and operational noise impact assessment considered 26
receptors which cover a range of directions from the Project WTGs. They are listed in
Table A11-5. Those marked with an asterisk (*) have a financial interest in the Project.
Background noise levels were measured at those in bold.
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Table A11-5: Noise Sensitive Receptors (NSRs)
ID Receptor Easting (m) Northing (m)
Approximate Distance from
nearest Project WTG (km)
A Balbeg 238156 602428 1.9
B Balbeg Cottage 238195 602330 1.8
C Craigfad 238428 602727 2.2
D Dalrowan 238239 602117 1.6
E Little Garroch 238323 602685 2.2
F Craigencallie Cottage 238884 601489 1.4
G Genoch Farm* 239081 601092 1.3
H Genoch Cottage 239049 600791 1.0
I Craigard 239025 601390 1.4
J Bennan Farm* 237902 604531 3.8
K Craig 238730 602657 2.3
L Dalmorton* 238260 601906 1.4
M Knockskae 237279 601396 0.7
N Linfairn Farm* 238159 601207 0.8
O Pulmullen Cottage* 238216 601662 1.2
P Glenlinn Cottage* 238134 601548 1.1
Q Duncawin 238192 602290 1.7
R Glengill Cottage 239881 600889 1.7
S Sunnyside 240239 600664 2.0
T Tairlaw Farm 240316 600903 2.2
U Tairlaw Toll Cottage 239762 599541 1.4
V Tallaminoch 240021 598257 2.0
W Knockgardner* 235159 603471 3.5
X Shawsknowe 233903 603253 4.1
Y Cullochknowes 2 233390 602664 4.1
Z Glenalla Farm 234709 600152 2.1
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It is noted that receptors J, W, X and Y are more than three kilometres from the Project
WTGs and are therefore unlikely to be affected by noise during either the construction
or operational phase of the Project. These receptors are considered only to allow the
assessment to be carried out for receptors in all directions from the Project WTGs.
11.4 Baseline Data Collection
The operational noise of wind farms is assessed by comparison with existing
background noise. Background noise is usually measured in the external amenity of
nearby NSRs. Measurements are made in ten-minute intervals over an extended
period.
Background noise monitoring was undertaken at four locations, each representing a
group of NSRs that are acoustically similar. (Highlighted in Table A11-5). The
monitoring locations were discussed between SgurrEnergy and the South Ayrshire EHO
prior to the installation of sound level meters. As noted in Table A11-1, the exact
locations of the noise monitoring kit were determined on the day of installation and
overseen by the South Ayrshire Council EHO.
Background noise measurements were obtained between 15 October 2014 and 20
November 2014 at Balbeg Cottage, Genoch Cottage and Linfairn Farm and from 23
October 2014 to 20 November 2014 at Tairlaw Farm. The slight difference in monitoring
period was due to construction works on the roof of Tairlaw Farm which were on-going
at the beginning of the measurement period. Appendix A11.1 shows photographs of the
microphone positions in the environment of the background noise monitoring receptors.
Other existing wind farms are over 10 km away, and would not be expected to
contribute significantly to the background noise at that distance. Hence no corrections
were made to the recorded data.
Of the four receptors, Balbeg Cottage (B) was chosen to represent receptors A-E,
Genoch Cottage(H) was chosen to represent receptors F-I, Linfairn Farm (N) was
chosen to represent J-Q and Tairlaw Farm (T) was chosen to represent receptors R-Z.
The reasoning for choice of receptor is based mainly on proximity to the monitoring
location or acoustic similarity to the receptor of interest. For receptors W-Z, Tairlaw
Farm was chosen to be representative as this receptor recorded the lowest background
noise measurements over the monitoring period and is deemed to be a conservative
approach for these more distant receptors.
Measurements were made in accordance with best practice set out in ETSU-R-97, (i.e.
at a height of 1.2 m to 1.5 m above ground level and not less than 3.5 m from any
reflective façade). The instruments used were Rion NL-32 and Rion NL-52 sound level
meters, Rion UC-53A microphones, Rion NH-21 preamplifiers and Rion WS-10 wind
shields. The sound level meters were calibrated at the initial deployment, at each
subsequent maintenance visit and upon decommissioning. The meters read correctly
each time.
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Care was also taken to position the microphones as far as reasonably practicable from
potentially noisy trees, bushes and watercourses.
The measurement locations were as shown in Table A11-6 and Appendix 11.1.
Table A11-6: Measurement Locations
ID Receptor Easting (m) Northing (m)
B Balbeg Cottage 238223 602331
H Genoch Cottage 239054 600804
N Linfairn Farm 238184 601226
T Tairlaw Farm 240328 600903
- Lidar 238156 600021
Rainfall was measured on site using a Campbell Scientific ARG100 tipping bucket rain
gauge and a Campbell Scientific CR10X data logger. Periods of rainfall were excluded
from the analysis.
Wind speed measurements were also carried out over the duration of the noise
measurements, using a Galion lidar remote sensing device. The measurement height,
amongst others, was 76m which matches the revised proposed hub height of the
Project. The wind speed was then referenced back to 10m using a hypothetical surface
roughness length of 0.05m, as recommended by the GPG Sound power levels of WTGs
have historically been referenced to 10m with a 0.05m surface roughness; this ensures
a consistent treatment of wind speeds and noise levels.
Ten minute consecutive noise measurements of LA90 were undertaken throughout the
measurement period. Noise levels were measured in conjunction with wind speed data
in order to correlate background noise levels with changes in wind speed.
11.4.1 Current Conditions
The noise monitoring results have been analysed in accordance with the procedures
outlined in ETSU-R-97.
The measured LA90 noise levels at 10-minute intervals have been correlated with the
wind speed measurements at 10 minute intervals standardised to a height of 10m
following the procedure recommended by the GPG for the period of the noise
measurement survey.
Any 10-minute interval in which unusually high noise levels were logged for a given
wind speed has been discarded.
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The measurement results have then been separated into the different time periods for
quiet daytime and night-time limits.
The LA90, 10-minute noise levels have been plotted against the corresponding wind
speeds at the reference height of 10m. For each period a polynomial “best-fit”
regression curve is fitted to the data.
The resultant background noise levels against wind speed at the four measurement
locations are shown in Table A11-7 below. The wind speed-background noise scatter
plots associated with these values are provided in Appendix A11.2, Appendix A11.3,
Appendix A11.4 and Appendix A11.5 for Balbeg Cottage, Genoch Cottage, Linfairn
Farm and Tairlaw Farm respectively. The background noise is relatively independent of
wind speed.
In choosing the background noise measurement locations, great care was taken to
avoid running water and, as far as possible, central heating pumps. Final measurement
locations were agreed with the EHO who was present during installation of the
equipment. Nevertheless, the background noise was consistently high, in some cases
higher than that measured during the 2013 baseline noise monitoring.
Table A11-7: Background Noise Levels, L90, dB(A)
Receptor Balbeg Genoch Linfairn Tairlaw
Wind
Speed
(m/s)
Quiet
Day
Night-
time
Quiet
Day
Night-
time
Quiet
Day
Night-
time
Quiet
Day
Night-
time
4 36.4 35.3 37.1 36.4 34.4 33.0 33.8 33.5
5 36.7 35.6 37.0 36.5 34.7 33.0 34.4 34.1
6 37.1 36.3 37.1 36.8 35.4 33.8 35.0 34.8
7 37.8 37.3 37.2 37.3 36.4 35.1 35.8 35.6
8 38.8 38.5 37.5 38.0 37.7 37.0 36.6 36.6
9 40.2 40.0 38.0 39.0 39.4 39.1 37.6 37.8
10 42.1 41.8 38.8 40.1 41.5 41.5 38.7 39.1
11 44.6 43.8 39.9 41.4 44.0 43.9 39.9 40.6
12 47.6 46.0 41.3 42.8 46.9 46.2 41.4 42.2
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11.5 Assessment of Effects
11.5.1 Construction & Grid Connection
The results of the calculation of received levels of noise at sensitive receptors during
Stage 1, (construction of access track) are summarised in Table A11-8. The levels have
been assessed on a worst case basis, i.e. with limited attenuation and assuming works
will be done concurrently (rather than consecutively).
Table A11-8: Predicted Noise Levels Received at NSRs for Stage 1 activities,
(Construction of Access Track)
ID Receptor SPL dB(A) LEq
A Balbeg 55.5
B Balbeg Cottage < 57.0
C Craigfad < 55.5
D Dalrowan < 57.0
E Little Garrioch < 55.5
F Craigencallie 51.7
G Genoch 51.5
H Genoch Cottage < 54.3
I Craigard < 51.5
J Bennan < 55.5
K Craig <55.5
L Dalmorton 57.0
M Knockskae 67.8
N Linfairn 61.1
O Pulmullen < 61.1
P Glenlinn < 61.1
Q Duncawin < 61.1
R Glengill < 51.5
S Sunnyside < 51.5
T Tairlaw Farm < 51.5
U Tairlaw Toll Cottage 52.9
V Tallaminoch < 52.9
W Knockgardner < 44.0
X Shawsknowe < 44.0
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ID Receptor SPL dB(A) LEq
Y Cullochknowes 2 < 44.0
Z Glenalla 44.0
The results of the calculation of received levels of noise at sensitive receptors during
Stage 2, (installation of WTGs and ancillary equipment) are set out in Table A11-9. The
results assume a worst case basis, i.e. with limited attenuation and assuming works will
be done concurrently (rather than consecutively).
Table A11-9: Predicted Noise Levels Received at NSRs for Stage 2 activities,
Installation of WTGs and Ancillary Equipment
ID Receptor SPL dB(A) LEq
A Balbeg 55.9
B Balbeg Cottage < 57.2
C Craigfad < 55.9
D Dalrowan < 57.2
E Little Garrioch < 55.9
F Craigencallie 54.3
G Genoch 54.1
H Genoch Cottage < 54.4
I Craigard < 54.1
J Bennan < 55.9
K Craig < 55.9
L Dalmorton 57.2
M Knockskae 65.3
N Linfairn 61.0
O Pulmullen < 61.0
P Glenlinn < 61.0
Q Duncawin < 61.0
R Glengill < 54.1
S Sunnyside < 54.1
T Tairlaw Farm < 54.1
U Tairlaw Toll Cottage 47.6
V Tallaminoch < 47.6
W Knockgardner < 48.3
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ID Receptor SPL dB(A) LEq
X Shawsknowe < 48.3
Y Cullochknowes 2 < 48.3
Z Glenalla 48.3
11.5.2 Operational Noise
The criteria for operational noise are based on existing background noise, subject to
fixed lower limits. The results of the background noise survey are presented in Table
A11-7.
Based on the ETSU guidance, criteria are 5 dB above local background noise, subject
to various lower limits. Where background noise levels are not available at high wind
speeds, a constant background noise level is assumed; this assumption is very
conservative. At levels above the criteria the noise emissions from the Project would be
considered a significant effect.
ETSU-R-97 defines night time to be the period between 23:00 and 07:00. Quiet day
time is defined as the period between 18:00 – 23:00 every day, as well as 13:00 – 18:00
on a Saturday and 07:00 – 18:00 on a Sunday.
The choice of day time noise criterion is in the range of 35 dB to 40 dB, as the limit of
low wind speeds depends on the number of sensitive receptors, the power output of the
development and the duration and level of exposure. The night time criterion generally
applied is 43 dB. The exception to this is either where the criterion of 5 dB above local
background noise is greater than the defined limit, and/or where appropriate financial
involvement is in place, in which case the appropriate limit is set at 45dB.
The following limits have been applied to the Project for the purposes of this
assessment:
Day time - the 35 dB limit or 5 dB above local background noise (whichever the
greater) limit has been used. For properties with financial interest, the 45 dB limit
is considered the appropriate level.
The night time limit of 43 dB, or 5 dB above local background noise (whichever
the greater), is recommended by ETSU-R-97, unless a receptor has appropriate
financial involvement where a 45 dB limit or 5 dB above local background noise
(whichever the greater) is used.
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11.5.2.1 WTG Emission Data
The operational noise has been assessed based on the Siemens SWT-3.2-101
(3.2MW) WTG, using information supplied by Siemens. Both full power (Standard
setting) and noise curtailed modes are included. The sound power level against wind
speed is shown in Table A11-10.
Table A11-10: Candidate WTG Sound Power Level against Wind Speed, dB(A)
WTG Operational
Mode
Wind speed (m/s)
4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12+
Standard
Setting 95.1 99.6 104.3 106.5 107.0 107.0 107.0 107.0 107.0
-1dB 95.1 99.6 104.3 106.0 106.0 106.0 106.0 106.0 106.0
-2dB 95.1 99.6 104.1 105.0 105.0 105.0 105.0 105.0 105.0
-3dB 95.1 99.6 103.8 104.0 104.0 104.0 104.0 104.0 104.0
-4dB 95.1 99.6 103.0 103.0 103.0 103.0 103.0 103.0 103.0
-5dB 95.1 99.6 102.0 102.0 102.0 102.0 102.0 102.0 102.0
-6dB 95.1 99.6 101.0 101.0 101.0 101.0 101.0 101.0 101.0
The standard warranty terms are to permit these levels to be exceeded by up to 1.5 dB
or one standard deviation, whichever is greater. Thus a tolerance of 2.0 dB has been
assumed.
Spectral levels are not warranted, but typical octave band spectra for 6 m/s and 8 m/s
are shown in Table A11-11 and Table A11-12.
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Table A11-11: Manufacturer’s Typical Sound Power Frequency Distribution at
6 m/s (dB(A))
Octave Band (Hz)
63 125 250 500 1000 2000 4000 8000
Standard setting 85.9 90.0 94.7 97.0 100.0 97.5 92.0 78.0
-1dB 85.9 90.0 94.7 97.0 100.0 97.5 92.0 78.0
-2dB 85.9 90.0 94.5 96.8 99.8 97.3 91.8 77.8
-3dB 85.8 89.9 94.2 96.5 99.5 97.0 91.5 77.5
-4dB 85.3 89.9 93.5 95.7 98.7 96.3 90.7 76.8
-5dB 85.1 89.5 92.4 94.6 97.6 95.2 89.6 75.7
-6dB 84.8 89.1 91.3 93.5 96.5 94.1 88.5 74.6
Table A11-12: Manufacturer’s Typical Sound Power Frequency Distribution at
8 m/s (dB(A))
Octave Band (Hz)
63 125 250 500 1000 2000 4000 8000
Standard setting 87.4 93.8 97.7 99.5 102.5 100.6 94.5 80.9
-1dB 87.2 93.5 96.7 98.5 101.5 99.6 93.5 79.9
-2dB 86.9 93.1 95.6 97.4 100.4 98.5 92.4 78.8
-3dB 86.7 92.7 94.6 96.4 99.4 97.5 91.4 77.8
-4dB 86.5 92.4 93.5 95.3 98.3 96.4 90.3 76.7
-5dB 86.3 92.0 92.4 94.2 97.2 95.3 89.2 75.6
-6dB 86.1 91.6 91.3 93.1 96.1 94.2 88.1 74.5
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11.5.2.2 Wind farm operational noise propagation model
The sound propagation over distance, including the effect of atmospheric absorption,
was calculated using the WindPRO model based on ISO 9613-2. In accordance with the
GPG (see Section 11.3.1) a ground factor of 0.5 was used with measured sound power
levels increased by 2.0 dB uncertainty. The receiver height was taken to be 4 m and air
absorption characteristic of 10ºC, 70% relative humidity was used. No screening was
assumed.
11.5.3 Decommissioning
It is considered that the noise effects of the decommissioning phase of the Project will
be similar to those associated with the construction phase and therefore no additional
assessment has been carried out for decommissioning.
11.6 Description and Evaluation of Effects
All NSRs are assessed as being of high sensitivity. The magnitudes of change, and
resulting effects are described in Table A11-13. Those effects above Moderate are
considered significant in terms of the EIA Regulations.
Table A11-13: Magnitude of Change and Resulting Effect
Excess over Criterion Magnitude of Change Effect
> 0 dB Criterion not met Significant
< 0 dB Criterion met Not Significant
11.6.1 Construction
Comparing the contents of Table A11-8 with those of Table A11-4 it will be seen that the
levels of noise attributable to the activities associated with the construction of the
access track, and predicted to be received at the NSRs, are below the threshold for
significant effect, except at Receptor M, Knockskae. It should be noted that the only
time the level there is excessively high is during construction of the access track where
it passes close to the receptor. This work will only take a few days and should be
scheduled in consultation with the residents there to minimise their inconvenience.
Comparison of the contents of Table A11-9 with those of Table A11-4 indicates that the
level of the noise predicted to be received at the nearest NSRs during Stage 2 of the
construction during normal working hours is below the threshold for significant effect,
with the exception again of Receptor M, Knockskae.
Where 24 hour working is needed for WTG installation there are various measures
available to mitigate noise impacts. Night time working will be very brief and infrequent.
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11.6.2 Vibration due to Construction
Currently there is no standard source of guidance providing a methodology by which to
predict vibration levels attributable to construction activities other than that for
percussive piling contained in BS 5228. When construction activities are within a few
tens of metres from a sensitive receptor, vibration may just be perceptible. Due to the
hundreds of metres between the construction activities and the sensitive receptors,
perceptible vibrations from these activities will not be transmitted to these receptors. In
summary, the relative significance of the effect of vibration is assessed as being
Negligible and not significant.
11.6.3 Operation
11.6.3.1 Operational Assessment – Project Individually
The noise impact assessment assumes that the sound energy propagates in all
directions from the WTG. Some energy will be absorbed in the air and some by the
ground. On that basis, the predicted levels received at the NSRs, as a function of wind
speed, referenced to 10m above ground level, are as shown as a noise contour map in
Appendix A11.6. The day and night-time criteria are presented in tabular format in Table
11.1 of Appendix A11.7 and graphically in Appendix A11.8. The graphs compare the
prediction (grey) with the quiet daytime criteria (in blue) derived from the quiet daytime
background and the night-time criteria (orange) derived from the night-time background.
The graphs and tables show that the predicted operational noise levels for all NSRs
meet the day- and night-time criteria, with the exception of Receptor M, Knockskae
where the WTG noise exceeds the day-time criteria at 7m/s by 0.5dB. The effect is
assessed as Not Significant for all receptors except Knockskae, where it is Significant.
11.6.4 Infra-sound
Infra-sound is defined as noise occurring at frequencies below that at which sound is
normally audible, i.e. at less than 20Hz, due to the significantly reduced sensitivity of the
ear at such frequencies. In this frequency range, for sound to be perceptible, it has to be
at very high amplitude and it is generally considered that when such sounds are
perceptible then they can cause considerable annoyance.
WTGs have been cited as significant producers of infra-sound. This has, however, been
due to the high levels of such noise, as well as an audible, low frequency, thumping
noise, occurring on older ‘downwind’ WTGs of which many were installed in the USA
prior to the large-scale take up of wind power production in the UK. Downwind WTGs
are configured with the blades downwind of the tower such that the blades pass through
the wake left in the wind stream by the tower resulting in a regular audible thump, with
infra-sonic components, each time a blade passes the tower. All modern WTGs are of
the upwind design, with the blades upwind of the tower, and this effect is eliminated.
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A study for the DTI8 concluded that ‘Infrasound noise emissions from WTGs are
significantly below the recognised threshold of perception for acoustic energy within this
frequency range. Even assuming that the most sensitive members of the population
have a hearing threshold which is 12dB lower than the median hearing threshold,
measured infrasound levels are well below this criterion’. It goes on to state that, based
on information from the World Health Organisation, ‘there is no reliable evidence that
infrasound below the hearing threshold produce physiological or psychological effects’ it
may be concluded that ‘infrasound associated with modern WTGs is not a source which
may be injurious to the health of a wind farm neighbour’. Therefore it is concluded that
this effect is Negligible.
11.6.5 Low Frequency Noise
Noise from modern WTGs is essentially broad band in nature in that it contains similar
amounts of noise energy in all frequency bands from low to high frequency. As distance
from a wind farm site increases, the noise level decreases as a result of the spreading
out of the sound energy but also due to air absorption which increases with increasing
frequency. This means that although the energy across the whole frequency range is
reduced, higher frequencies are reduced more than lower frequencies with the effect
that as distance from the site increases, the ratio of low to high frequencies also
increases. This effect may be observed with road traffic noise or natural sources such
as the sea where higher frequency components are diminished relative to lower
frequency components at long distances. At such distances, however, overall noise
levels from WTGs are so low that this effect is Negligible and not significant.
11.6.6 Amplitude Modulation
The RenewableUK research programme on amplitude modulation (AM) has concluded9,
but there remains significant concern about the issue. A recent decision on
Tullymurdoch Wind Farm10 concludes:
8 W/45/00656/00/00 The Measurement of Low Frequency Noise at Three UK Windfarms. Department of Trade and
Industry 2006
9 RenewableUK (2013). Wind Turbine Amplitude Modulation: Research to Improve Understanding as to its Cause and
Effects - Brief Summary. http://www.renewableuk.com/en/publications/reports.cfm/wind-turbine-am-cause-effects-
briefing.
10 http://www.dpea.scotland.gov.uk/Document.aspx?id=213840, last visited 8 December 2014
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31. The council cites recent research produced by RenewableUK on other
amplitude modulation in support of its contention that a condition is necessary to
deal with this issue if permission is to be granted. As noted above, the Scottish
Government Online Renewables Planning Advice says that the Institute of
Acoustics good practice guide should be used by those undertaking
assessments. In relation to amplitude modulation, the guide states that the
evidence on this issue is still developing and current practice is not to assign a
planning condition to deal with it.
11.6.7 Vibration due to Operation
There is no evidence of vibration due to the operation of WTGs being perceptible
beyond the immediate vicinity of the WTGs. This, together with the considerable
distances between the indicative WTG locations and the nearest sensitive receptor, will
ensure that the effect will be not significant.
Similarly, any effect as a result of operational traffic will be Negligible and not significant,
due to the small numbers of operational vehicles visiting the development.
11.7 Cumulative Effects
ETSU-R-97 states that noise limits should be set relative to the pre-development
background noise levels at the nearest noise sensitive receptor and that other existing
wind farms should be taken into consideration. There are several consented wind farms
within 5km of the Project. Details of the neighbouring wind farms are shown in Table
A11-14 and on the map in Appendix A11.9. Their noise contributions can be predicted
in accordance with ETSU-R-97.
Table A11-14: Cumulative Sites included in the Assessment
Site Name
Number
of
WTGs
Hub Height
(m)
Rotor
Diameter
(m)
Rated
Power (kW)
Project
Status
Dersalloch 23 70 90 3,000 Consented
Burnhead 8 60 82 2,300 Application
Dalmorton 19 80 90 2,500 Scoping
Keirs Hill 17 80 104 3,400 Application
Glenmount 23 80 90 3,000 Application
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11.7.1 Operational Assessment –Project Cumulatively
The cumulative noise levels received at the NSRs, as a function of wind speed,
referenced to 10m above ground level, are as shown in tabular format in Appendix
A11.10 and in graphical format in Appendix A11.11. Sound power levels are those
supplied by the manufacturer. Where a receptor has financial involvement, the day and
night-time criteria have been set to 45 dB or background + 5 dB, whichever is greater.
The graphs compare the prediction (in grey) with the quiet daytime criteria (in blue)
derived from the quiet daytime background and the night-time criteria (in orange)
derived from the night-time background. The graphs and tables show that the predicted
levels meet the day- and night-time criteria at all noise sensitive receptors except at
Receptor M, Knockskae where the daytime criterion at 7m/s is exceeded by 0.7dB. The
effect is therefore considered negligible at all receptors barring Knockskae where the
effect is Significant.
11.8 Mitigation Measures
11.8.1 Construction Phase
Construction activities will be scheduled, unless otherwise agreed, from Monday to
Friday 0700 to 1900 or Saturday 0700 to 1300.
Levels of construction noise in excess of the daytime criterion are predicted at Receptor
M, Knockskae, during construction of the access track and erection of WTG 7. This
work will only take a few days and will be scheduled in consultation with the residents at
Knockskae to minimise their inconvenience. Further details will be provided in a
Transport Management Plan (TMP) following consent (see also Chapter A14 (Traffic
and Transportation)). Suitably managed, the effect would be Negligible.
11.8.2 Operational Phase
The potential excess over the noise limits at Knockskae (M) requires that noise
mitigation be applied to some of the WTGs. The proposed candidate WTG has a
number of operational modes to reduce the noise emission.
The modes are assigned to the WTGs as shown in Table A11-14. It should be noted
that this is a worst case curtailment scheme, derived in the original ES (see ES Chapter
11), to meet criteria derived from the lower background noise levels measured at that
time. The actual curtailment scheme to be implemented will be refined should the
application be granted consent.
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Table A11-15: Operational Modes of WTGs, L90, dB(A)
WTG Operational Mode
7 -6dB
8 -6dB
9 -6dB
10 Standard setting
13 -6dB
14 -6dB
15 -6dB
16 Standard setting
17 Standard setting
18 Standard setting
19 Standard setting
20 Standard setting
21 Standard setting
22 Standard setting
23 Standard setting
24 Standard setting
25 Standard setting
By operating some of the WTGs in noise-reduced modes (and using a conservative
curtailment scheme) the predicted levels received at the sensitive receptors, as a
function of wind speed, referenced to 10 m above ground level, can be brought below
the daytime criterion levels as shown in Appendices 11.12 and 11.13. Mitigation is only
required during daytime hours (0700 to 2300). The daytime and night-time criteria and
predicted levels are also shown in graphically in Appendix A11.14. The graphs compare
the prediction with the quiet daytime criteria derived from the quiet daytime background
and the night-time criteria derived from the night-time background.
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The graphs and tables show that the predicted levels are below the criteria levels at all
noise sensitive receptors.
The effect of operational noise from the WTGs, including cumulative effects of all wind
farms currently operational, consented or applied for, is therefore assessed as Not
Significant.
Procedures for compliance testing in the event of a complaint should be set out in the
planning conditions, and should be based on the guidance in ETSU-R-97.
11.9 Cumulative Review of Sites at Scoping Stage
The local authority (South Ayrshire Council) requested at the pre-gateway meeting on
13 August 2012 that the cumulative effect of wind farms currently in scoping be
considered.
The cumulative assessment has been undertaken in accordance with policy ECON 7D
of the Joint Ayrshire Structure Plan. As a result, sites which are currently not subject to
a valid planning application at the time of submission of the Addendum should not be
considered in the determination of this application. For illustrative purposes the
predicted levels, with this same curtailment scheme, but assuming all other wind farms
currently in scoping were to be built, are shown in Appendix A11.15 to Appendix
A11.17.
It should be noted however that the effect of wind farms only in scoping are not normally
included in cumulative assessments, but have been included here at the request of
South Ayrshire Council.
11.10 Residual Effects
11.10.1 Residual Effects
The residual effects of the noise associated with construction, operation and
decommissioning are summarised below.
11.10.2 Construction Phase
The levels of noise attributable to the activities associated with the construction work,
and predicted to be received at the nearest sensitive receptors are, during daytime
hours, below the threshold for significant effect.
11.10.3 Operational Phase
With a conservative mitigation scheme, the residual predicted levels from the operation
of the Project and the neighbouring wind farms are all below the criterion levels, often
by a significant margin. The effect is assessed as being Negligible.
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11.10.4 Decommissioning Phase
Decommissioning noise will be similar to, or less than, construction noise. During
daytime hours, they are below the threshold for significant effect
11.11 Summary of Effects
Table A11-16 provides a summary of the potential effects associated with the
construction, operation and decommissioning of the Project.
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Table A11-16: Summary of Effects
Receptor Development Stage
Sensitivity Magnitude of Change
Predicted Effect Prior to Mitigation
Mitigation Residual Effect
D Knockskae Construction High Small Not Significant Schedule work on the section of track nearest property in consultation with residents.
Not Significant
All others Construction High Negligible Not Significant It is assumed that evening and night work will not be permitted.
Not Significant
D Knockskae Operation High Criterion exceeded
Significant Curtail WTGs 7, 8, 9, 13, 14, 15 to Mode -6dB.
Not Significant
D Knockskae Decommissioning High Small Not Significant Schedule work on the section of track nearest property in consultation with residents.
Not Significant
All others Decommissioning High Negligible Not Significant It is assumed that evening and night work will not be permitted.
Not Significant
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11.12 Statement of Significance
Overall, the effects of the Project on the acoustic environment are not significant under
the terms of the EIA Regulations.
Recommended