Massachusetts’ largest data center faces pushback over Lowell expansion
A data center owned by The Markley Group in Lowell, Massachusetts, is facing a legal challenge from residents over its proposed expansion of diesel generators. Residents cite concerns about increased noise and pollution, while the company and the state's environmental protection department argue the expansion permit was properly issued and won't worsen conditions. A judge is currently deliberating on the case.
Residents in Lowell, Massachusetts, are actively opposing the expansion of a large data center owned by The Markley Group and have taken their fight to court. The facility, which spans an area the size of six football fields, is seeking to increase its diesel-powered generators from 19 to 27, a move neighbors contend will exacerbate existing issues of noise and air pollution.
The Markley Group, which provides computer services to businesses, hospitals, and schools, asserts that the generators are necessary for power redundancy and that it followed all regulatory procedures to obtain the state permit for expansion. A lawyer representing the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection supported this stance in court, stating that the permit would not worsen environmental conditions. The company's attorney also suggested that much of the opposition stems from