Vineland, N.J. data center makes case for on-site power generation during 6-hour hearing
DataOne defended its proposal for on-site power generation at a Vineland, NJ hyperscale AI data center using Bloom Energy fuel cells during a six-hour planning board hearing. The project, being developed for Nebius Group as part of a $17 billion deal with Microsoft, is facing resident concerns over air quality, water, and noise, with a class-action lawsuit already filed over construction noise and property values. The planning board has yet to make a decision on the second phase of the project.
Representatives for a hyperscale artificial intelligence data center in Vineland, New Jersey, presented their case during a six-hour hearing before the city's planning board. The developers, DataOne, working for Nebius Group as part of a $17 billion deal with Microsoft, are seeking approval for the project's second phase, which includes a new proposal to use Bloom Energy fuel cells for on-site power generation. If approved, this would be Bloom Energy's largest single-site fuel cell project.
DataOne's attorney, Michael Fralinger, argued that the fuel cells, which do not use combustion, would result in fewer carbon emissions than traditional power generation. He also stated that on-site generation would alleviate strain on the electrical grid and avoid impacting residential ratepayers' bills, emphasizing that all financial risks are borne by the project. The planning board, which ended the hearing at midnight without public comment, must reconvene to decide on the plan.
Local residents have raised concerns about the data center's potential impact on air quality and water supplies, as well as noise from construction. Zac Landicini, a resident advocating against the development, criticized the pace and focus of the meeting, suggesting it was designed to deter public engagement. A class-action lawsuit has been filed by residents claiming that construction and operational noise will negatively affect property values. Despite opposition, Vineland's mayor and City Council president have expressed support for the project, citing potential benefits like 200 permanent jobs and significant tax contributions.