New Jersey Datacenter Ran Unpermitted Generators for Nearly a Year

The Microsoft-linked DataOne datacenter in Vineland, New Jersey, emitted large amounts of health-harming air pollution for nearly a year before state regulators stepped in. The facility's 62 gas-fired generators operated without permits, leading to a one million dollar fine from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection last week. Public records show the generators began arriving in July 2025, with 16 starting up in October, another 16 in early February, and all 62 running by June. By the time inspectors noticed them, the unpermitted fleet had run for more than 46,000 hours.

Emissions And Impact

Experts estimate the generators emitted about 140 tons of nitrogen oxides, or NOx, ranking the facility among the state's top five NOx polluters for 2025. NOx gases are linked to asthma, heart attacks, and premature death. At full use, the fleet could emit more than 1,500 tons per year, which is nearly twice the limit of New Jersey's largest NOx emitter, the Linden Cogeneration plant. New Jersey classifies any facility emitting over 25 tons a year as a major source requiring strict environmental reviews. DataOne did not obtain these permits before operating.

Local Reaction

Local residents expressed deep concern over health risks and loud noise that residents compared to a low-flying airplane. The Cumberland County Department of Health received more than 100 noise complaints since March. Local flower farmer Michael Atkinson called DataOne one of the worst neighbors he has ever dealt with. During a January town hall meeting, DataOne CEO Charles Beyney told residents the facility would pollute less than a farm, though city and county inspectors had already noted the generators running in February and May.

Context

Datacenters require massive amounts of continuous power to support computing operations, often leading operators to rely on heavy-duty diesel or gas generators when grid connections are delayed. This creates acute environmental and noise challenges for nearby residential communities as digital infrastructure expands rapidly.