Vineland planning board approves 2nd phase of 300-megawatt data center plan
The Vineland Planning Board in New Jersey has approved the second phase of a 300-megawatt data center project, which includes facilities for liquefied natural gas storage and fuel cells to generate its own energy. Despite significant opposition from residents concerned about safety, emissions, and water use, the board voted 8-1 to approve the plan. The project is being developed by DataOne for Nebius Group as part of a deal with Microsoft.
The Vineland Planning Board in New Jersey has approved the second phase of a 300-megawatt data center development, which will feature on-site energy generation using fuel cells and liquefied natural gas (LNG) storage. The project, developed by DataOne for Nebius Group in conjunction with a $17 billion deal with Microsoft for artificial intelligence infrastructure, saw its first phase already approved and under construction.
The decision followed a six-hour public hearing where hundreds of residents voiced strong opposition, citing concerns over LNG safety, carbon emissions, and water consumption. Residents, including Eric Rodriguez, urged the board to delay the vote due to unanswered questions, and a local grassroots group, Sustain SJ, labeled the approval "irresponsible" and criticized officials for disregarding potential public safety and health risks.
Despite the pleas, the board voted 8-1 to approve the proposal, with only member John Casadia dissenting, calling for a "thorough investigation" into environmental impacts. Other board members argued the plan conformed with local zoning laws and did not require variance relief.
Separately, the City of Vineland had previously issued a stop-work order for parts of the data center, alleging that the facility began installing the LNG tank and fuel cell units prior to receiving city approval.