NORD2000 Module
High-precision wind turbine noise simulation
The NORD2000 module in windPRO is a powerful noise propagation engine that allows you to simulate the actual noise experienced by neighbors based on real environmental conditions. NORD2000 has been validated for wind turbine noise and is ideal for complex sites or detailed impact assessments.
Model real-world noise impacts with advanced physics-based calculations for wind turbine projects
Why choose NORD2000?
While many regulatory models provide simplified noise limits for specific conditions, NORD2000 dives deeper—calculating how terrain, weather, and turbine performance interact to affect noise levels at specific locations.
Use NORD2000 when:
- No specific propagation model is mandated, but detailed conditions are required.
- You want to evaluate worst-case scenarios under different wind speeds or directions.
- You need a true-to-life noise assessment tailored to a site’s terrain and atmospheric conditions.
Advanced Noise Propagation Model
NORD2000 simulates noise propagation from wind turbines to receptors (e.g. neighbors) using:
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Real terrain data (contours, roughness, surface hardness)
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Wind and weather conditions (speed, direction, temperature, humidity, shear)
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Turbine-specific source noise in 8-octave or 31 third-octave bands
It captures dynamic atmospheric and ground effects, enabling higher accuracy than standard models.
Variable and Time-Dependent Parameters
Many factors influencing noise are not static—NORD2000 accounts for:
- Turbulence
- Wind fluctuations
- Day/night atmospheric profiles
- Seasonal and weather-based conditions
The model includes preset configurations (e.g., clear sky day vs. clouded night) to simplify complex climate input.
Terrain Matters
Terrain plays a major role in how sound travels:
- Hard surfaces (asphalt, water) reflect more noise.
- Soft surfaces (grassland, farmland) absorb and attenuate noise.
- Terrain also affects wind flow, influencing sound propagation.
With NORD2000, you can factor all of this in for a scientifically robust noise analysis.
Simulation Options
- Point Calculation: Assess noise under specific conditions.
- Range / Wind Speed & Direction Analysis: Simulate noise for a range of climatic conditions to map the varying noise impact, particularly when combines with noise curtailment optimisation.
When should you use NORD2000?
NORD2000 is best used for:
- Detailed site-specific assessments
- Supplementing standard DECIBEL calculations with high-precision data
- Projects where terrain complexity or regulatory flexibility require deeper insight
- Noise assessments where realistic environmental modelling is essential
