Infrasound and low-frequency noise generated by high-power onshore wind turbines – case study

The development of renewable energy sources in recent years has played a key role in the global transformation of energy and the diversification of conventional energy sources. Wind energy is one of the most dynamically developing renewable energy sectors. Leading wind turbine manufacturers are improving production technologies by introducing larger and larger turbines to the onshore wind energy market. Their higher unit power makes it possible to replace several smaller devices with a bigger one, but this brings with it some controversy and environmental challenges. The operation of high-power wind farms can increase infrasound and low-frequency noise (ILFN) emissions, potentially impacting the quality of life of nearby residents. This paper discusses the current environmental risks associated with the development of high-power wind turbines and potential problems with increasing ILFN emissions. The range of impact and emission of low-frequency noise generated by high-power turbines was compared with that of their smaller counterpart in terms of size and dimensions. This paper highlights the foreseeable problems in current regulations for the assessment of noise generated by wind turbines in Poland.