Massive AI data center near Philly accused of running unpermitted generators
An AI data center in Vineland, New Jersey, operated by DataOne, is accused of running dozens of gas-powered generators without proper permits, violating federal law and environmental regulations. This has led to stop work orders from the City of Vineland and an ongoing lawsuit from local residents over noise complaints. The facility provides AI computing power to Microsoft as part of a deal with Nebius.
The DataOne AI data center in Vineland, New Jersey, is facing accusations of violating federal law after a joint investigation by Floodlight and The Guardian revealed the facility is operating at least 45 of its 62 massive gas-powered generators simultaneously without permits. These generators, each the size of a tractor-trailer, emit air pollution and are located just one mile from two schools.
Former EPA chief Bruce Buckheit stated that such generators require final permits before operation and that DataOne's actions "violate federal law," calling for an immediate halt to operations and fines for "illegal emissions." The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection confirmed that no operational permits for the generators have been issued or are under review for the DataOne facility.
In response to the issues, the City of Vineland has issued multiple stop work orders against the project. Local residents have also filed a lawsuit citing persistent noise complaints, which is currently ongoing. DataOne has not directly addressed the unpermitted generators but affirmed its commitment to meeting all applicable environmental and permitting requirements. Neither Microsoft, a client of DataOne, nor Nebius, an infrastructure partner, has responded to the allegations.