The expansion of offshore wind power is a significant step toward sustainable energy production, but it also raises important questions regarding its environmental impact, particularly underwater noise. A recent study published in the Journal of Marine Science and Engineering has modeled the underwater sound generated by three planned floating offshore wind farms in the Strait of Sicily, Italy, an area identified as crucial for biodiversity and under increasing development pressure.
Lead author Marzia Baldachini from the Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology at the University of Turin emphasizes the need for understanding the potential acoustic disturbances these projects may cause. “The operational sound generated by these floating wind farms could disrupt vital marine behaviors, leading to physiological stress and habitat displacement,” she notes. This is particularly concerning in an area that already experiences significant shipping noise.
The study utilized advanced acoustic modeling techniques to predict how sound from the wind farms would propagate through the marine environment. The results indicated that the operational sound could reach levels of 100 dB re 1 µPa as far as 67 kilometers from the wind farm. Although this level is generally lower than the ambient noise from shipping traffic, the cumulative effects of multiple wind farms could pose new challenges for marine life.
Commercially, this research highlights both risks and opportunities for the maritime sector. As the industry moves toward larger and more powerful offshore wind installations—over 130 projects are currently planned in Italian waters—there is a growing need for comprehensive monitoring and mitigation strategies. This creates opportunities for companies specializing in marine acoustics, environmental monitoring, and noise mitigation technologies.
Furthermore, the study also examined the sound generated by offshore supply ships during maintenance operations. These vessels, which can remain on-site for extended periods, add low-frequency noise to the underwater environment. The research underscores the importance of considering these additional sound sources when evaluating the overall impact of offshore wind farms.
Baldachini’s work is a crucial step in ensuring that the growth of offshore wind energy does not come at the expense of marine ecosystems. “Our findings might enhance confidence in future assessments of potential impacts on the marine ecosystem,” she states, highlighting the importance of integrating environmental considerations into the planning stages of these projects.
As the maritime sector continues to evolve with the rise of renewable energy, understanding and managing underwater noise will be vital. This research not only contributes to the scientific understanding of sound propagation in marine environments but also serves as a guide for policymakers and industry stakeholders in balancing energy development with ecological preservation.
