Windfarm expert claims noise guidelines are misleading

An international expert in noise has advised the Department of the Environment that new guidelines on acceptable noise emissions from wind turbines must take account of existing ambient noise levels in individual communities.

Acoustic consultant and chartered engineer Dick Bowdler said the current guidelines, introduced in 2006, contain “inaccurate or misleading statements” and that existing guidance “is not evidence based”, and “in some cases contrary to best evidence”.

Meanwhile, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland is seeking consultants to carry out a review of all international academic studies completed on noise from onshore windfarms. The invitation to tender was posted on the eTenders website this week. The review will form part of the overall updating of statutory wind energy development guidelines which is under way.