New Jersey DEP fines Vineland data center $1.07M for unpermitted generators

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has levied a $1.07 million penalty against DataOne, a data center located in Vineland, Cumberland County, New Jersey. The penalty stems from allegations that the company installed and operated 62 large natural-gas generators without obtaining the necessary permits, a violation of the state's Air Pollution Control Act.

The generators, each with a capacity of 1,982 kilowatts, were observed during a DEP inspection on July 29. State regulations mandate preconstruction permits and operating certificates for generators with a capacity of 37 kilowatts or greater. The DEP's order requires DataOne to immediately apply for and obtain these permits or cease operations.

DataOne has issued a statement disputing the state's determination regarding the temporary generators but confirmed it would apply for the air permits and is in communication with the DEP. The company asserts that the generators are temporary and will be replaced by a permanent fuel-cell power supply, for which they claim to have the necessary approvals. The DEP noted that these generators were not present during a previous inspection in December 2025.

This $1.07 million fine represents the largest enforcement action against a data center in New Jersey's history. The action coincides with the state's increased regulatory scrutiny on data centers, including recent laws signed by Governor Mikie Sherrill establishing a separate electric rate structure for large data centers and mandating semiannual reports on energy and water usage.