Modelling the underwater noise associated to the construction and operation of offshore wind turbines

The operation and in particular the construction of offshore wind converters induce considerable underwater noise emissions. It is assumed that small whales and seals can be affected by noise from machines and vessels, piling and installation of the wind turbines. Piling, in particular using hydraulic hammers creates impulsive noise with considerable high energy levels. Currently, only little knowledge about the effects of different noises to marine life is available. Here, we present an ongoing project from the Laboratory of Applied Bioacoustics (Technical University of Catalonia): to simulate the generation, radiation and propagation of underwater noise; to develop forecasting hydro sound models of offshore wind converters and future noise reduction methods during pile driving; to determine the impact area of offshore wind farms; to allow the formulation of recommendations for acoustic emission thresholds; and to develop standard procedures for the determination and assessment of noise emissions.