In a surprising turn of events, an abandoned nuclear power plant in Washington state has been transformed into a world-class acoustics laboratory. The facility, located at the Satsop Business Park, is now home to NWAA Labs, a company that specializes in acoustic testing and verification. The lab's unique location and design make it an ideal space for companies to test the sound quality of their products, from soundproofing materials to noise-canceling headphones.

The story of how this abandoned power plant came to be repurposed as an acoustics lab is a fascinating one. The Washington Public Power Supply System (WPPSS) began construction on the nuclear power plant in 1977, but it was ultimately abandoned in 1982 due to cost overruns and safety concerns. The facility remained unused for decades, until Ron Sauro, a former NASA scientist, saw an opportunity to convert it into an acoustics lab. Sauro, who had been searching for a new location for his lab, was drawn to the power plant's unique features, including its remote location and thick concrete walls.

The lab's remote location is a major advantage, as it reduces background noise and allows for more accurate testing. The thick concrete walls, which were designed to withstand a magnitude 10 earthquake, provide excellent sound insulation, making it possible to test products in a controlled environment. Sauro and his wife, Bonnie, have invested heavily in the facility, converting the auxiliary reactor building into a state-of-the-art testing space. The lab is equipped with advanced equipment, including a free field speaker testing rig and reverberation chambers, which allow companies to test their products in a variety of scenarios.

The lab's unique features have made it a go-to destination for companies seeking to verify the sound quality of their products. Sauro has worked with a wide range of clients, from manufacturers of soundproofing materials to companies developing noise-canceling headphones. The lab's ability to provide accurate and reliable testing results has made it an essential resource for companies seeking to ensure that their products meet the highest standards.

Despite the challenges of working in an abandoned power plant, Sauro is thrilled with the results. "If you can't find a mountain, you make a mountain," he says, referring to the lab's unique location. Sauro's determination and ingenuity have paid off, as NWAA Labs has become a world-class acoustics testing facility. The lab's success is a testament to the power of innovation and creativity, and a reminder that even the most unlikely spaces can be transformed into something truly remarkable.

The story of NWAA Labs is also a reminder of the importance of repurposing and reusing existing infrastructure. By transforming an abandoned power plant into a cutting-edge acoustics lab, Sauro and his team have not only created a valuable resource for companies, but have also reduced waste and minimized the environmental impact of building a new facility from scratch.

As the demand for high-quality acoustic testing continues to grow, NWAA Labs is well-positioned to meet the needs of companies around the world. With its unique location, advanced equipment, and commitment to excellence, this former nuclear power plant has been transformed into a world-class acoustics lab, and is set to remain a leader in the field for years to come.