Wind turbine noise rules are 'out of date'

Noise level regulations for wind turbines are 11 years old and fail to address the impact of new technology that has allowed larger and louder sites, a pressure group has warned.

By Alastair JamiesonPublished: 9:42AM GMT 26 Nov 2009

Environmental Protection UK say turbines are now so large that the noise generated by turning blades is affecting more nearby residents.
The charity, which campaigns to minimise noise pollution as well as reducing air pollution and emissions of greenhouse gases, believes changes in technology are not being reflected in current local government planning guidelines.
The government says it is continuing research into the impact of noise from wind turbines.
Experts working for Environmental Protection UK say the government guidelines on acceptable noise levels for wind turbines were due for revision 11 years ago and there has been little sign that changes in wind turbine technology is reflected in these rules.
They add that this guidance was designed for structures of about 90ft (27m) in height, but some applications for wind farms include turbines that are at least three times higher.
Current guidance assumes background noise at ground level, such as the rustling of leaves, would mask the noise of the blades turning.
However, turbines are becoming so big that they residents will be able to hear the blades above any background noise.
Environmental Protection UK argues the rules need a radical overhaul, otherwise applications for new wind farms are in danger of being rejected.
The charity has also questioned whether smaller renewable energy sites, particularly those in urban areas, are beneficial at all when weighed against the impact of noise on communities.