The potential behind offshore wind energy in Ireland is massive, but how the acoustic impact of such developments is assessed requires significant attention. In the case of wind turbines, we now understand a great deal about the generation of noise at source, but the manner in which noise propagates from the source, particularly over water, requires particular attention. There are no accepted methodologies to assess the long-rage, low frequency noise propagation over sea water.

The proposed project will develop a validated computational model to assess noise propagation over water, specifically for the case of offshore wind turbines around Ireland’s coast. This model will be compared to standard prediction methods, and the study will yield Irish specific correction factors, the first of their kind. This will ensure future developments in Irish waters are assessed to the highest standard, with minimal acoustic impacts.

The project is divided into five separate work packages. WP1 will develop a numerical model to model the long-range propagation of sound over water from offshore wind turbines, including meteorological and surface effects. This model will be compared to results from today’s standard commercial models (WP2) and both will be validated against noise measurements taken on site (WP3). The project will conclude by comparing results to international benchmark test cases and developing Irish specific corrections for offshore wind turbine noise assessments (WP4). Open access to information also plays a central role in this project, and an entire work package is devoted to project management and information dissemination (WP5).

The ASHORE project is funded by the SEAI National Energy RD&D Funding Programme 2022