Wind turbine noise has special characteristics that make it unique. It’s not just the volume of the sound that is relevant, but also its character and how it is experienced in different environments and situations.

When the wind turbine blades cut through the air, they create a characteristic swishing sound. This aerodynamic sound is rhythmic because it intensifies each time a blade passes the tower. Modern wind turbines also generate low-frequency sound and infrasound – sounds with such low frequencies that we cannot hear them but that can still affect the surroundings.

Sound propagation is affected by many factors. Wind strength and direction, temperature, humidity, and ground conditions all play a role in how the sound spreads and is experienced. Especially at night, when background noises are few, wind turbine sounds can become more prominent even at greater distances.