Opinion: Princeton University urged to oppose South Brunswick data center air permit
An opinion article urges Princeton University to oppose an air permit for a data center under construction in South Brunswick, citing emissions from 20 diesel generators, fuel storage, and potential health impacts. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection is reviewing the permit, and the public can submit comments before a final decision.
The South Brunswick data center, located near Princeton on Route 1, is being built with 20 diesel generators and an estimated 400,000 gallons of on-site diesel fuel. The article argues that routine testing and operation during periods of peak electricity demand could make the generators a significant source of emissions affecting nearby communities, including Princeton.
Writer Elif Cam urges Princeton University to submit comments opposing the facility’s air permit unless cleaner backup-power systems are adopted. Princeton’s mayor and council, the Princeton Undergraduate Student Government and the broader Princeton municipality have already communicated concerns to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, which is considering the permit and accepting public comments before issuing a final decision.