Noise Generation and Acoustic Impact of Free Surface Hydropower Machines: Focus on Water Wheels and Emerging Challenges

Emanuele Quaranta and Gerald Müller
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Emanuele Quaranta: European Commission Joint Research Centre, 10127 Ispra, Italy
Gerald Müller: Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK

IJERPH, 2021, vol. 18, issue 24, 1-7

Abstract: The noise generated by free surface hydropower machines, e.g., water wheels, has led to complaints and to restrictions in their operation in urban areas. This problem generally occurs when water wheels are not well designed and are installed without expertise. Despite the relevance of the problem, and the growing interest in the use of water wheels at existing low head barriers, the acoustic impact of water wheels has not yet been properly addressed by the scientific community. Therefore, in this manuscript, the importance of the problem and the related scientific challenges are discussed, supported by case studies and theoretical considerations. A literature review on the topic is carried out, although little information is available in the scientific domain. The aim of this work is to increase the awareness on this problem, in order to stimulate future research and to suggest useful guidelines for future water wheel projects, thereby increasing the water wheel potential and reducing noise disturbance for people.

Keywords: acoustic impact; low head hydropower; micro hydropower; noise; water wheel (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
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