Making environmental impacts visible to support community confidence
Noise from BESS facilities is attracting increasing attention. For solar power plants too, clear explanations to local authorities and residents are becoming more important, particularly when ownership changes.
After checking the relevant local noise standards, we use simulations incorporating the equipment’s frequency-band sound pressure data to present surrounding impacts through numbers and maps, rather than subjective impressions.
We organize the results into clearly explainable materials that provide a foundation for stakeholder agreement.
Our services
Basic simulation / Optimization simulation / Other simulations
Our noise assessments use equipment sound pressure levels by frequency band and site layout conditions to predict noise at site boundaries and surrounding receiver locations. We compare mitigation options for battery energy storage systems (BESS) and solar power plants, preparing materials for discussions with local authorities and residents.
To scope a noise simulation, please share the project location, equipment noise specifications, layout drawings, barrier specifications and the locations to be assessed. The basic service delivers two noise maps comparing conditions before and after mitigation, plus a report. The optimization service adds a revised scenario for a three-map comparison and report. Discuss a noise assessment with ANE.
Basic simulation: two-scenario comparison
Using the equipment noise information, layout drawings and noise-barrier specifications supplied by the client, we assess the proposal against the relevant local noise limits.
The simulation reflects sound pressure levels (dB) by frequency band (Hz) and produces two noise maps for comparison: before mitigation (without a barrier) and after mitigation (with a barrier).
We set receiver locations commonly used in explanations, such as site boundaries and selected surrounding points, and can adjust the visual presentation, including colors, as needed. Deliverables comprise two noise maps and a report.
Optimization simulation: three-scenario comparison
Building on the basic simulation, we compare three scenarios, including an additional option with revised conditions, for clients who want greater confidence in environmental compliance or a design that addresses likely community concerns.
We re-run the simulation with changes to barrier height, length or location, equipment layout, or other existing conditions. We also propose possible changes and work with the client to identify a practical solution.
This process allows comparison of both noise mitigation performance and opportunities to optimize construction costs, particularly barrier material costs. Deliverables comprise three noise maps and a report.
Other simulations: beyond BESS
Although the basic service is designed around BESS, the same two- or three-scenario approach can be used for solar power plants and other facilities when noise-source information (equipment specifications) and layout conditions are available.
It can also support community explanations during ownership changes, investigation of noise concerns during operation, and consideration of equipment replacement or additional mitigation.
When this service can help
- Preparing evidence of environmental compliance for local authorities and residents when building or expanding a BESS facility
- Clearly showing the difference before and after mitigation at sites where noise concerns are likely
- Finding suitable layout and barrier specifications while balancing compliance and cost
- Assessing noise risks during ownership changes or operation of solar power plants to support community understanding