New Jersey fines data center $1.1M after drone pics expose 62 gas generators
Million-dollar fines won’t end billionaires’ data center pollution, neighbors fear.
TL;DR
- New Jersey fined DataOne $1.1 million for operating 62 gas generators without required air permits.
- The operation was exposed by thermal drone footage shared by The Guardian and Floodlight News.
- Generators were operating at capacities significantly higher than the state limit, emitting pollutants that can worsen health conditions.
- Environmental groups and residents argue the fine is too small and that DataOne should cease operations while seeking permits.
- DataOne plans to apply for permits and transition to lower-emission fuel cells, but trust with the local community is broken.
- Residents are concerned about air quality impacts and question the six-month delay in enforcement after initial concerns were raised.
- The incident highlights broader concerns about data center development and its environmental impact, leading to past backlash against tax credits for such projects.
- Sustain SJ is advocating for a statewide moratorium on new data center projects due to a perceived lack of transparency and trust.