Acoustic Impact Studies (AIS) of Wind Farms in Uruguay: A Methodology Proposal

Abstract

The fast growing development of wind power in Uruguay has encouraged research on many issues regarding environmental acoustics, especially those related to wind turbines operation. As every new power generation device of 10 MW or larger has to have an environmental license approval before building it, a methodology for Acoustic Impact Studies (AIS) was needed. This paper presents a methodology proposal to carry out AIS, taking into account the peculiarities of the Uruguayan status. Determining the area where the studies should be done, demands for the base line of sound pressure levels, predicting sound pressure levels during the operation of future wind farm and main lines for the environmental management plan are included in this proposal. Uruguayan current national guidelines to noise pollution levels are also presented.