Vineland data center fined $1.07 million for violating pollution law: Governor
Data One in Vineland, New Jersey, has been fined $1.07 million for violating the Air Pollution Control Act by operating 62 natural-gas generators without proper permits. Governor Mikie Sherrill announced the fine, which is the largest environmental enforcement action against a data center in the state's history. Data One disputes the ruling, stating they are transitioning to fuel cells and will apply for the necessary permits for temporary generators, while local residents continue to voice concerns about resource usage and noise.
Governor Mikie Sherrill announced a $1.07 million fine against Data One, a data center in Vineland, Cumberland County, New Jersey, for violating the Air Pollution Control Act. This marks the largest environmental enforcement action against a data center in New Jersey's history.
The fine follows a July 29 inspection that discovered 62 large natural-gas generators operating at the Data One facility without the required permits from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP). Data One, the company behind the data center, has expressed disagreement with the ruling. A company spokesperson indicated that they are transitioning to low-emission fuel cells as a permanent power solution and possess the necessary approvals for this system. They plan to apply for air permits for the temporary generators and are in communication with the NJDEP regarding the findings and their transition timeline.
Local Vineland residents have actively opposed the data center, citing concerns over resource usage and a persistent humming noise emanating from the facility. Governor Sherrill emphasized the state's commitment to holding data centers accountable for environmental compliance.