Battery storage systems can compensate for fluctuations in electricity generation and are therefore a crucial factor in the energy transition. Accordingly, capacities are being continuously expanded. But as important as they are: transformers, inverters and ventilation or cooling systems generate noise. To ensure that this does not become an obstacle in the approval process, reliable noise emission forecasts are required.
Noise emission forecasts for battery storage systems – when, why and how?
For larger battery storage systems and facilities in noise-sensitive environments such as residential areas, noise emission forecasts are often a mandatory part of the approval process. In Germany, the basis for this is the Federal Immission Control Act (BImSchG) in conjunction with the Technical Instructions on Noise Abatement (TA Lärm). These guidelines specify the reference values that must be complied with in the respective area classifications. If several systems are operated at one location, the total impact must be considered.
It makes sense to consider the factor noise at an early stage, as this allows you to determine in good time whether reference values are being complied with or whether measures such as noise barriers, changes to installation locations or quieter components need to be planned. Those who factor in acoustics from the very beginning save time in the approval process, minimize planning risks and avoid costly retrofitting.
Step by step: How the expert opinion is prepared – from the initial data collection to the final report
1. Site analysis and classification of the surroundings
- Protected areas in the vicinity (e.g. residential areas, schools, hospitals)
- Relevant reference values (during the day and at night)
2. Acquisition of technical data relating to the system components
- Sound power levels (frequency-dependent, if applicable) of transformers, inverters and ventilation
- Operating hours
- Installation heights
3. Modelling of terrain and buildings based on site plans
- Topography
- Buildings
- Noise barriers or other shielding
4. Forecast calculation
- Calculation according to relevant standards (e.g. ISO 9613-2)
- Visualization of propagation paths, immission points and isophones
5. Assessment according to relevant standards
- Comparison of the calculated values – including surcharges, if applicable – with the permissible reference values
- Identification of critical times (usually at night) and sensitive locations
6. Mitigation measures (if necessary)
- Optimizing the installation location
- Selecting quieter components
- Planning sound barriers or enclosures
In order for the results to be valid in the approval process, the calculations must be realized in accordance with standards and be presented in a transparent and comprehensible way. The security required by planners, assessors and approval authorities alike can only be achieved by using quality-assured software. This is precisely where IMMI comes in.
How IMMI supports you in making forecasts
In IMMI, our software for immission control, noise forecasts can be carried out precisely, comprehensibly and quality-assured – from the input of data to the finished report.
- Legally compliant calculation: All relevant calculation methods – such as those specified in ISO 9613-2 – are integrated in a quality-assured manner and guarantee reliable evaluation.
- Intuitive modelling: Even complex sites with multiple facilities, buildings or noise protection measures can be clearly mapped.
- Integration of location data: GIS data, digital terrain models or 3D CAD files can be integrated directly, so that calculations are based on real location information.
- Meaningful visualizations: Diagrams showing sound propagation can be incorporated directly into expert reports.
- Efficient workflows: Automated calculation steps and flexible interfaces support structured and time-saving handling.
IMMI therefore not only delivers reliable results, but also facilitates communication with authorities and project partners through clear and transparent visualizations.
We support you in all project stages
/RZ_dBEL_blau_schwarz.png?width=150&height=106&name=RZ_dBEL_blau_schwarz.png)
You do not need a complete expert report in the first step, but only an assessment of the planned location of a battery storage system?
Our cloud solution dBEL makes it possible to carry out a quick and sound noise evaluation – ideal in early project stages.
/Woelfel-Logo-klein-transparent.png?width=150&height=62&name=Woelfel-Logo-klein-transparent.png){kind=logo}
You want to put the preparation of a noise emission forecast for your battery storage facilities in experienced hands?
Our team of experts will prepare a legally compliant report for you within a very short time.
Conclusion: More planning certainty thanks to reliable noise emission forecasts
Our energy supply is a balancing act, and battery storage systems help to compensate for fluctuations in renewable energies. In order for them to go into operation without delay, the factor noise must be assessed in advance.
A forward-looking noise planning means two things: Security in the approval process and local acceptance. Using IMMI, forecasts can be made reliably, presented in a comprehensible manner and integrated into project planning at an early stage.
Teilen Sie diesen Artikel auf LinkedIn
