energy transition at FIA 2026.
SoundPLAN, a global leader in noise simulation software and services, will present new live-event noise prediction capabilities alongside advanced renewable energy and psychoacoustic noise assessment tools at FIA 2026. Discover more at Stand 2 at the 14th Ibero-American Acoustics Congress. Covering all aspects of acoustics and vibration, the event takes place at the Pontifical Catholic University of Peru (PUCP) in Lima from 12-14 August.
Efficient open-air event noise prediction
For concerts, festivals, and other outdoor events, reliable environmental noise prediction depends on a detailed description of the sound system, site geometry, propagation conditions, and interactions between different sound sources. SoundPLAN software supports these workflows with tools for modelling complex sound system configurations and assessing their impact on the surrounding environment.
A central element of this workflow is the new System Design Exchange (SDE) format, developed by d&b audiotechnik, L-Acoustics, and SoundPLAN. SDE improves the exchange of relevant sound system data between system design software and environmental noise prediction software.
Both SoundPLANnoise and the newest edition to the software range, SoundPLANessential+, support SDE workflows. Capabilities include the import of detailed loudspeaker and system data, and the consideration of phase-related effects during the noise propagation calculation. This reduces the need for manual reconstruction of loudspeaker systems and enables more consistent, traceable, and realistic modelling of complex sound system configurations. These features help acoustic consultants, event organisers, authorities, environmental engineers, and sound system designers evaluate open-air event noise more transparently during the planning process.
For advanced open-air event modelling, SoundPLANnoise additionally supports the consideration of semi-transparent structures such as temporary walls, barriers, or tent constructions.
Noise mapping for renewable energy
The rapid expansion of wind and solar power is transforming energy infrastructure worldwide, with large-scale battery energy storage systems being introduced to support grid stability. These developments introduce new environmental and operational challenges, increasing the importance of robust and efficient noise assessment and mitigation.
SoundPLAN software addresses these challenges by allowing users to assign frequency-dependent 2D or 3D directivities to sources and include them in noise prediction calculations. Existing directivity datasets can be imported where appropriate. In addition, chimney stack directivity effects can be generated in accordance with ISO 9613-2:2024. These features complement the extensive emission data library integrated within the software and support more realistic modelling for complex industrial and energy-related applications.
Assessing how noise is perceived
In addition to conventional sound pressure level calculations and regulatory assessment workflows, SoundPLAN will present tools that support a more detailed assessment of how noise is perceived.
Psychoacoustic indicators such as Loudness, Sharpness, and Tonal characteristics can help consultants and planners describe the perceptual quality of sound more comprehensively. These indicators can provide additional insight for urban development, industrial noise studies, infrastructure projects, and other applications where the character of noise is relevant for communication with clients, authorities, and affected communities.
