New Jersey fined DataOne $1.07 million, saying it installed and operated 62 natural-gas generators at its Vineland data center without required permits, violating state air-pollution law. DataOne disputes the state's characterization and has 45 days to get permits or shut down.
The DEP called the penalty the largest enforcement action against a data center in New Jersey. Inspectors first saw the generators July 29; they were not at the site during the agency's previous inspection in December 2025. State rules require a preconstruction permit and valid operating certificate for generators rated 37 kilowatts or more; each unit is rated 1,982 kilowatts.
DataOne said the generators are a temporary measure as it transitions to Bloom Energy fuel cells for permanent power, and that the fuel cells already have approvals. The company may request a hearing within 20 calendar days. A Floodlight and Guardian investigation using thermal drone imagery documented at least 45 of the 62 generators running in August. Nearby residents have complained about noise, and a class-action lawsuit has been filed.
