Vineland AI data center hit with a $1 million fine
New Jersey has fined DataOne, the developer of an AI data center in Vineland, over $1 million for operating 62 natural-gas power generators without required state permits. DataOne disputes the determination but will apply for permits, while facing ongoing community concerns about the project's environmental and quality-of-life impacts.
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has fined DataOne, a French company developing a hyperscale AI data center in Vineland, over $1 million for violating clean-air laws. State officials stated that DataOne installed and operated 62 large natural-gas power generators at its Cumberland County facility without the necessary DEP permits, a violation discovered during a site inspection and highlighted by an investigation from Floodlight and The Guardian.
New Jersey DEP Commissioner Ed Potosnak emphasized that this is the largest enforcement action against a data center in the state, signaling a firm stance against unpermitted operations. DataOne spokesperson Naomi Race stated the company's disagreement with the "temporary generator determination" but confirmed they would apply for the permits. The company also indicated a transition to low-emission fuel cells for the facility's permanent power source.
The 2.4 million-square-foot complex is set to be South Jersey's first hyperscale AI data center, with Amsterdam-based Nebius Group operating internal equipment to fuel Microsoft's AI tools. Vineland residents have expressed concerns about the environmental, financial, and quality-of-life impacts. DataOne founder and CEO Charles-Antoine Beyney addressed a contentious town hall, attempting to reassure residents about the project's "breakthrough" technology.
The Vineland facility is one of the few hyperscale data centers nearing completion in the Philadelphia region, amidst a global demand boom. The article also notes recent regulatory shifts by Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill to impose new restrictions and accountability on data centers, though neither has enacted a statewide moratorium, which some data center opponents advocate.