Major East Coast Data Center Accused of Violating Federal Law
The DataOne facility in Vineland, New Jersey, a major AI data center backed by Microsoft and Nebius, is accused of violating federal law by operating dozens of unpermitted gas-powered generators. A visual investigation by Floodlight and The Guardian found 45 of 62 generators running without the required permits from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. Residents have also filed a lawsuit over noise complaints and the city has issued stop-work orders for permit violations related to fuel cell installation.
The DataOne facility in Vineland, New Jersey, planned to be the state's largest AI data center and backed by a $17-billion deal between Microsoft and Dutch AI firm Nebius, faces accusations of violating federal environmental law. A joint investigation by Floodlight and The Guardian used thermal drone footage to reveal that at least 45 of the site's 62 gas-powered generators were operating without the necessary permits from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP).
Bruce Buckheit, a former EPA air enforcement chief, stated that DataOne's actions likely violate federal law, requiring immediate cessation of operations and payment of fines for illegal emissions. The NJDEP confirmed it had issued no permits for the generators and had noticed them during a July 29 site inspection, with a full compliance determination pending. Microsoft declined to comment, while DataOne stated a commitment to meeting environmental and permitting requirements. Nebius did not respond to inquiries.
Local residents, including Andrew and Stevi Groetsch, who live less than a mile from the site, have filed a lawsuit in New Jersey state court over persistent noise pollution, which they suspect is linked to the unpermitted generators. The Cumberland County Department of Public Health previously cited DataOne for noise ordinance violations, and the City of Vineland issued two stop-work orders in early August, including for moving fuel cells onto the site without permission. These fuel cells are intended to replace the current generators as DataOne pursues a 'bring your own power' strategy, utilizing Bloom fuel cells capable of producing 300 megawatts, which still produce significant carbon dioxide.
Critics like Buckheit suggest the industry prioritizes speed to market, leading companies to operate without permits, believing it's