In this new blog series, Metrica’s acoustic consultants will share practical guidance on good acoustic design for solar and BESS developments. In this first article, Acoustic Consultant Feargus Flanagan explains how strategic equipment placement can significantly reduce noise impacts on nearby receptors — and why it’s a crucial consideration from the earliest design stages.
Why Early Noise Planning Matters
Metrica has supported over 100 planning applications for solar and BESS developments, working alongside some of the UK’s largest power generation companies. We’ve helped clients proactively manage noise risk — from early-stage noise modelling through to final noise assessments for planning submissions.
Noise from BESS and solar developments typically comes from inverters, cooling systems, and transformers. With the rapid growth of renewable energy projects, these elements are increasingly being installed near homes and other sensitive receptors.
To demonstrate that a Development will not result in adverse impacts, local authorities almost always require a Noise Impact Assessment to be submitted as part of the planning application for solar and BESS sites. Engaging an acoustic consultant early helps you avoid costly design changes later on — and demonstrates to planners that noise has been properly considered.
Need advice on your site layout? Contact us here.
Location, Location, Location
The level of noise experienced at nearby receptors depends on several key factors, including:
- The location and orientation of equipment (BESS containers, inverters, transformers)
- The number and type of units installed
- Existing background noise levels
- The level of noise emitted by chosen equipment
- Noise limits agreed with the Local Authority
Because every site is different, there’s no universal setback distance. For example, a small BESS development in a high-noise environment (near a busy road or industrial area) may be acceptable closer to receptors than a large BESS development in a rural area. This is why site-specific noise modelling is essential.
What Metrica Will Look At First
During the initial acoustic review of a BESS or solar development, Metrica will:
- Review available land within the ownership boundary
- Identify key nearby receptors (residential, commercial, etc.)
- Assess the existing noise environment (roads, industry, natural features)
- Consider other site constraints (flooding, access, topography)
- Recommend the ideal location for substations, BESS units, inverters, or transformers
In general, we recommend locating BESS and noise-emitting equipment as far from sensitive receptors as possible. This often allows for greater flexibility in equipment selection — for example, enabling the use of units with potentially higher noise output without exceeding acceptable levels at the nearest receptors.
But Further Isn’t Always Better
In some cases, placing the development closer to an existing noise source (like a busy road or industrial estate) may be more effective, even if that brings it physically closer to receptors. This is because higher background noise can ‘mask’ the additional noise from your development, resulting in no perceived increase in overall noise levels.
We always consider the existing acoustic environment as part of our early review — giving you the most practical and cost-effective solution.
Noise from Inverters in Solar Arrays
For solar arrays, inverters should ideally be positioned as far from receptors as possible — typically at the opposite end of the field. Where receptors are present on all sides, we’ll usually recommend positioning inverters along the centre line to maximise distance in all directions.
What If There’s No Room?
We know that land availability can be tight. In many cases, it won’t be possible to place BESS or solar equipment as far from receptors as possible. Where this is the case, we’ll identify:
- Additional noise mitigation measures that may be needed
- Equipment changes or layout tweaks that could help
- Associated planning risk if mitigation is limited
With over 100 successful noise assessments submitted for solar and BESS projects, our team has the experience to guide you through even the trickiest sites.
Looking Ahead: Beyond Location
The location of equipment is only one piece of the acoustic design puzzle. In our next blog, we’ll explore how equipment selection, acoustic barriers, and operational controls can further reduce noise impacts — and help your project meet planning requirements with confidence.
Have a solar or BESS development in planning?
Talk to our acoustic consultants today for practical advice on reducing noise risk from the start.
