Walnut Acoustics conducted background noise monitoring at the proposed site and used noise modelling to assess noise impacts at the nearest residences with BS 4142:2014+A1:2019 methodology.
The proposed layout was revised and re-modelled to achieve acceptable noise levels, satisfy local authority environmental health noise criteria, and to assist in securing planning approval.
Project Overview
Walnut Acoustics was appointed to provide comprehensive noise consultancy for a large solar farm and battery energy storage system (BESS) development.
The project required detailed noise impact assessments to evaluate the potential impact of site operations on residential noise-sensitive receptors (NSRs) and ensure compliance with local authority noise criteria.
Our goal was to deliver clear, actionable recommendations that supported the planning application, informed site design, and addressed potential noise concerns early in the process.
Challenges & Requirements
- Background Noise Monitoring – Establish existing noise levels at the nearest residential noise-sensitive receptors (NSRs).
- SoundPLAN Noise Modelling – Assess noise propagation from key operational sources, including string inverters, inverter transformers, substations, battery storage units and power conditioning units.
- Planning Authority Compliance – Ensure an acceptable of plant noise to meet local authority requirements.
- Mitigation Strategies – Provide design advice and re-modelling before submission of the final noise impact assessment.
- Consultee Engagement – Respond to environmental health officer (EHO) comments and provide additional assessment revisions where necessary.
Our Approach
1. Site Survey & Background Noise Monitoring
A detailed noise survey was conducted to establish the location of and existing background noise conditions at the nearest residential noise receptors.
This data served as the reference point for assessing potential noise impacts from the specified electrical plant in the proposed development.
2. Noise Modelling & Predictive Analysis
Using SoundPLAN, we calculated predicted noise levels generated by a range of electrical plant, including:
- Inverters & Transformers – Assessing low-frequency and operational noise.
- Substations – Evaluating emissions from electrical equipment.
- Battery Storage Units & Power Conditioners – Examining peak noise levels during charging and discharging cycles.
3. Noise Mitigation & Site Layout Optimisation
To minimise noise impact, we collaborated with the client’s design team to develop effective mitigation strategies, including:
- Strategic equipment placement – Adjusting plant locations to reduce noise exposure at the nearest residences.
- Considering plant with low noise specifications to minimise potential impacts.
4. Planning Application Support & Local Authority Engagement
A comprehensive Noise Impact Assessment (NIA) using BS 4142:2014+A1:2019 methodology was produced to support the planning application.
- A detailed response to planning authority and EHO comments, ensuring all concerns were addressed.
- Worked with the client to finalise noise mitigation measures where necessary, helping them to progress through the planning process.
Results & Project Impact
- Successful Planning Approval – The noise assessment provided the necessary assessment and mitigation reports to support the application.
- Optimised Site Layout – Strategic placement and specification of noise sources reduced the impact on nearby residences.
- Effective mitigation ensured compliance with local authority EHO noise criteria.
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