Metro Atlanta data center didn’t have permits to start construction but did anyway
A data center project in Newton County, Georgia, has been ordered by the state's Environmental Protection Division to halt construction immediately. The companies, Walton Grid and Server Farm, started building a data center and an adjacent power plant without the necessary permits, violating state law. Opponents are concerned about potential air pollution from the planned natural gas and diesel generators.
A data center project in Newton County, Georgia, has been ordered by the state's Environmental Protection Division (EPD) to immediately cease construction due to violations of state law regarding necessary permits. Channel 2's Michael Doudna reported that construction, including generators, had already commenced on Hazelbrand Road, despite the project lacking proper authorization.
The project, involving companies Walton Grid and Server Farm, is described as Georgia's first data center with an adjacent private power plant. The plan includes 33 natural gas engines and 37 diesel emergency generators. Evidence indicates that construction began while the permit review process was ongoing and unresolved, leading to a direct violation of state regulations.
Maurice Carter, president of Sustainable Newton, expressed strong opposition to the development, citing concerns that the generators could pollute the air with cancer-causing chemicals. He emphasized the critical need for such projects to adhere to legal frameworks and prioritize public safety, stating that cutting corners puts citizens at risk.
Following a tip, the Georgia EPD issued violation notices to both Walton Grid and Server Farm last week, demanding they stop work. The companies have until July 17th to respond and explain why they started construction without a permit. The EPD will then review the case and determine if penalties are warranted.