Denton’s Core Scientific data center faces TCEQ violations due to air quality emissions
Core Scientific faces pending enforcement from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality over alleged air-quality violations at its Denton data center. The company reportedly operated eight emergency generators for extended periods, producing emissions above permitted limits while addressing defective transformers. The allegations have intensified Denton officials' consideration of a 90-day moratorium on new data center development.
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality issued Core Scientific a notice of enforcement after investigating alleged air-quality violations at two of the company’s Denton data center sites. TCEQ said eight emergency generators operated between April and June while the company addressed defects in 93 transformers, producing emissions of nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide and particulate matter well above certified annual limits. The agency also alleged that generators were used beyond permitted hours, that required records were incomplete and that a federal air-pollution permit may have been required.
The potential enforcement could lead to an administrative order or referral to the Texas Attorney General’s Office for court action and civil penalties. Core Scientific did not respond to a request for comment. Mayor Pro Tem Nick Stevens cited the allegations and environmental concerns as support for Denton’s consideration of a 90-day moratorium on new data center development, an issue that was nearing the end of its public-hearing process.