NJ hits Vineland data center with $1.07M penalty over 62 natural gas generators
The Department of Environmental Protection announced the penalty Tuesday against DataOne, saying the generators were observed during a July 29 inspection of the Cumberland County facility.
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New Jersey environmental regulators have assessed a $1.07 million penalty against a Vineland data center, alleging it installed and operated 62 large natural-gas generators without required permits.
The Department of Environmental Protection announced the penalty Tuesday against DataOne, saying the generators were observed during a July 29 inspection of the Cumberland County facility.
The DEP said the 62 stationary generators each have a capacity of 1,982 kilowatts. State regulations require generators with a capacity of 37 kilowatts or greater to obtain a preconstruction permit and operating certificate.
The DEP said DataOne violated the state's Air Pollution Control Act by installing and operating the generators without those approvals. The agency's order directs DataOne to immediately apply for and obtain the required permits or cease operations.
DataOne said in a statement that it disagrees with the state's determination concerning the temporary generators but will apply for the air permits and is communicating with the DEP about its findings.
The company said the generators are temporary as it transitions to fuel cells for the site's permanent power supply. DataOne said it has the necessary approvals for the fuel cell system.
The generators were not observed during the DEP's previous inspection of the facility in December 2025, according to the agency.
Natural gas generators emit carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide and other combustion-related pollutants, the DEP said.Some Vineland residents say the fine may not go far enough, though.
“A good starting fine, maybe $3 million, it should be. They're bringing in a lot of money, but they're also polluting the air,” said Matthew Asselta, “If they want Vineland and people to be on their side, they should pay for their permits and be straight forward with everybody."
“They shouldn't be allowed to do that kind of stuff. They're just big conglomerates and they're just pushing ahead without any regard for people.” said Al Marcacci.
The $1.07 million penalty is the largest enforcement action against a data center in New Jersey history, according to the DEP and Gov. Mikie Sherrill's office.
