Noise and energy optimization of wind farms

The noise impact in the surroundings are usually described through noise prediction models like ISO 9613-2 which assumes simple propagation conditions like downwind in all directions. This leads to a concept of more or less constant noise at the neighbours independent of wind direction (and other meteorological parameters).

New and more sophisticated noise prediction models, like Nord2000, include the influence of meteorology in the noise propagation. This gives the opportunity to make a more detailed planning of a wind farm layout where local meteorology is taken into account and a layout optimized with respect to noise and energy production can be defined.

In this project it has been investigated whether it is possible to use Nord2000 for noise and energy optimization of wind farm layout when combined with a flow model like WaSP developed by Risø in WindPRO developed by EMD International.

One part of the project has focused on the validation of the Nord2000 noise propagation model for elevated sources like wind turbines. The validation has been done successfully for the test cases realized in the project.

The second part of the project focused on the development of a prototype software combining Nord2000 with WindPRO. The prototype also included a simple version of energy optimization.

The project was carried out in cooperation between DONG Energy, EMD and DELTA with financial support from Energinet.dk. Supplementary funding to the project is given by DONG Energy, Statkraft Development, Vattenfall AB Vindkraft, E.ON Vind Sverige AB, Suzlon Energy and Gamesa.