WINDFARM VÄNERN
Predictions made by the customer showed that noise level at the nearest residences would exceed the limit value 40 dBA. In order to meet 40 dBA, the number of wind turbines would have to be reduced and the park would not be profitable.
Solution
More detailed noise calculations and arguments presented to the Environmental court. We showed that the Environmental Protection Agency's model for calculation of sound propagation over the sea is not reasonable to apply in this case. Opponents of the project had made comments that this model shall be used. We used a sound propagation model that takes into account more features such as topography and frequency content than the calculation of Environmental Protection Agency designated for planning purposes. We could also show that the waves that break in the beaches may result in sound levels in excess of the projected wind noise levels.
Results
Wind park Vänern received its environmental permits. The wind turbines are now in place and the plant becomes operational in the latter part of 2009.