Generator permit latest front in data center fight

Local residents and environmental groups are voicing strong opposition to Vantage Data Centers' Lighthouse Campus on Port Washington's north side, focusing on the environmental impact of its 45 diesel backup generators. During a public hearing, Carri Prom of Great Lakes Neighbors United highlighted concerns about diesel exhaust, classified as a carcinogen, and questioned the Department of Natural Resources' (DNR) emission analysis, urging for a full environmental impact study. The DNR has made a preliminary determination that Vantage's air permit application meets requirements, but a final decision is pending. Separately, the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) has opened a comment period on a draft environmental impact statement regarding power line extensions to the data center campus. The Responsible Energy Alliance, comprising residents from Saukville, Trenton, Fredonia, and Farmington, is advocating for power lines to follow existing routes rather than new ones that could impact their communities and environment. Adding to the regulatory landscape, the PSC recently approved a special electricity rate for data centers, proposed by We Energies. This rate is designed to ensure data centers bear the full cost of their high electricity consumption, with the PSC strengthening the original proposal. Mark Freeman, Vantage's vice president for global marketing, stated the generators are intended for emergency backup and monthly testing, asserting they will run infrequently. However, opponents like Christine Le Juene and groups such as Midwest Environmental Advocates, representing the Sierra Club Wisconsin Chapter, argue that even backup operation of the generators poses significant air quality risks, especially in Ozaukee County's ozone nonattainment zone, and demand a more comprehensive impact analysis.