The Crucey photovoltaic power plant, operated by EDF power solutions, spans over 250 hectares on a former NATO air base. With 741 150 solar modules and an annual production of 51.6 GWh, it supplies the equivalent of 28,000 residents while following exemplary environmental management practices: site decontamination, wildlife monitoring, and the maintenance of a cattle farm on the southern part of the site.
As part of this environmental approach, we carried out an environmental acoustic study of the Crucey solar park to assess and reduce the noise generated by technical equipment (inverters, transformers, ventilation systems).
The challenges were multiple: complying with neighborhood noise regulations, maintaining appropriate acoustic comfort for nearby agricultural activities, and evaluating the efficiency of existing noise control measures already implemented on some sound sources.
This project required a rigorous methodological approach adapted to a vast, quiet site exposed to variable weather conditions.
We conducted a comprehensive acoustic study covering the entire assessment process:
- On-site measurements with precise characterization of sound emissions from several inverters
- Analysis of acoustic power levels, comparing treated and untreated equipment.
- 3D acoustic modeling of the site using iNoise software, integrating topography, site installations, and nearby buildings.
- Definition of tailored noise control solutions, including acoustic silencers.
- Post-treatment verification to validate the achieved noise reductions.
Thanks to our deep understanding of industrial and energy sites, we adapted our methodology to the specificities of an operating solar production site, with equipment spread across more than one million square meters.
Our studies precisely quantified the acoustic impact of each piece of equipment and demonstrated the effectiveness of the noise control measures implemented:
- 16.5 dB(A) reduction at the air outlet of treated equipment.
- 2.2 dB(A) decrease in the overall sound level perceived by the surrounding environment.
- Final emergence below 3 dB(A) at the most exposed point, ensuring regulatory compliance and site tranquility.
The simulations also enabled EDF power solutions to anticipate additional noise treatment needs in specific areas and to adjust its long-term acoustic maintenance strategy.
Beyond compliance, this initiative reinforces the project’s environmental responsibility by ensuring a balance between renewable energy production and respect for living environments.
This project showcases our expertise in environmental acoustics applied to photovoltaic and renewable energy installations, where industrial noise management contributes to both technical performance and social acceptability.
