New Jersey hits Vineland data center with over $1 million fine for violating pollution law
New Jersey's Governor Mikie Sherrill's administration has fined the DataOne data center in Vineland over $1 million for operating 62 natural-gas power generators without required permits, violating the New Jersey Air Pollution Control Act. This fine follows legislation signed by Sherrill aimed at increasing transparency for data center energy and water use. Additionally, neighbors had previously filed a lawsuit against DataOne due to noise concerns.
New Jersey's Governor Mikie Sherrill's administration has issued a $1.07 million fine against the DataOne data center in Vineland for violating the New Jersey Air Pollution Control Act. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) stated that DataOne installed and operated 62 large natural-gas power generators, each with a 1,982-kilowatt capacity, without obtaining the necessary preconstruction permits and valid operating certificates. These approvals are mandated for any generator with a 37-kw capacity or higher. The DEP's Administrative Order and Notice of Civil Penalty Assessment (AONOCAPA) requires DataOne to immediately apply for the permits or cease operations.
Governor Sherrill emphasized her commitment to holding data centers accountable, highlighting the fine as the largest in state history for such a violation. She also referenced recent legislation she signed in August, which aims to increase transparency regarding data center energy and water consumption. The DEP noted that natural gas generators emit various pollutants including carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and carbon monoxide. This action by the state follows a lawsuit filed by two neighbors against DataOne over noise pollution and prior concerns voiced by Vineland residents at a town hall meeting in January.