NJ hits Vineland data center with $1.07M penalty over 62 natural-gas generators
New Jersey environmental regulators have fined DataOne, a data center in Vineland, $1.07 million for operating 62 natural-gas generators without required permits. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) observed the unpermitted generators during a July inspection. DataOne disputes the state's determination but stated it will apply for the necessary permits, noting the generators are temporary during a transition to fuel cells.
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has issued a $1.07 million penalty against DataOne, a data center located in Vineland, Cumberland County. The penalty, announced Tuesday, stems from allegations that DataOne installed and operated 62 large natural-gas generators without obtaining the necessary permits, a violation of the state's Air Pollution Control Act.
The unpermitted generators, each with a capacity of 1,982 kilowatts, were reportedly discovered during a DEP inspection on July 29. State regulations mandate preconstruction permits and operating certificates for generators with a capacity of 37 kilowatts or greater. The DEP has ordered DataOne to immediately apply for the required permits or cease operations of the generators.
DataOne has stated its disagreement with the state's determination regarding the temporary nature of the generators but confirmed it will apply for the air permits and is in communication with the DEP. The company indicated that these generators are a temporary power source as it transitions to a permanent fuel-cell system for which it claims to have the necessary approvals. The DEP noted that these generators were not present during a previous inspection in December 2025.
This $1.07 million fine represents the largest enforcement action against a data center in New Jersey's history. The action coincides with New Jersey's increased focus on regulating data centers, with Governor Mikie Sherrill recently signing laws to establish separate electric rate structures for large data centers and require semiannual reports on their energy and water usage.