Question
To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether ETSU-R-97 is (a) the only framework methodology used for the assessment of onshore wind turbines and (b) the most (i) effective and (ii) up to date guidance; what assessment he has made of the potential impact of changes in the size of wind turbines on the effectiveness of ETSU-R-97; and if he will review the ETSU-R-97 guidance.
Answer
ETSU-R-97 is the primary guidance used for the assessment of noise from onshore wind turbines across the UK. Government has contracted an external consultancy to update ETSU-R-97 following a 2023 scoping review which recommended targeted updates to ensure the guidance is in line with contemporary evidence and policy, and suitable for modern turbines. Government aims to publish the updated guidance in Spring 2025.