Massachusetts’ largest data center faces pushback over expansion
Residents in Lowell, Massachusetts, are fighting the expansion of the Markley Group's data center, citing concerns about noise and pollution from additional diesel generators. They have filed a lawsuit asking a judge to pause the expansion, with a decision pending.
The Markley Group's data center in Lowell, Massachusetts, which was converted from a Prince Spaghetti factory in 2015, is facing strong opposition from local residents over its proposed expansion. The company, which provides critical computer services, seeks to add eight more backup diesel-powered generators to its existing 19.
Neighbors claim these generators, even during weekly testing, emit significant pollution and create excessive noise, described as sounding like a jet engine. Several residents, including Alex Solange and Mary Wambui, are plaintiffs in a lawsuit, arguing that the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) failed to adequately assess the project's combined impacts, health risks, and potential for cleaner alternatives.
Michelle O'Brien, a lawyer for Markley, countered that the company followed all permitting rules and suggested the opposition is fueled by