Cause of buzzing noise from Vineland data center may have been identified
New Jersey fined the Data One data center in Vineland more than $1 million after inspectors found 62 natural-gas generators operating without required air permits. The generators may be the source of a persistent buzzing noise reported by residents, although officials have not confirmed that connection.
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection imposed a penalty of more than $1 million on the Data One data center in Vineland after finding 62 large natural-gas generators operating without required pre-construction and operating permits. Commissioner Ed Potasnik said the generators emit carbon dioxide, nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide and must stop operating or obtain the necessary permits under the state's enforcement order.
The report examined the timeline of state inspections, noting that inspectors visited the facility in December and again in July, when the generators were documented. Floodlight investigative reporter Evan Simon used a thermal drone in August and found what appeared to be more than 60 generators, with 45 operating at the time. Residents who had complained for months about a constant buzzing noise said the discovery offered possible confirmation of their concerns, though the report said the generators have not been officially identified as the noise source.
The DEP declined to answer follow-up questions because enforcement action remains ongoing. Data One did not respond by deadline but said it planned to apply for permits for the temporary generators and transition to quieter, lower-emission fuel-cell technology.