According to **Patch reporter Josh Bakan**, New Jersey environmental regulators have proposed a **$1 million fine** against a **data center in Vineland** over alleged air pollution violations.
The **New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP)** said the facility, operated by **DataBank**, ran **125 diesel generators** without the required permits. State officials said the generators are considered significant sources of air pollution and should have gone through NJDEP’s permitting process before operating.
The state announced that it issued an **administrative order and notice of civil administrative penalty assessment** to the company. NJDEP said the alleged violations involve operating the generators at the data center without first obtaining the proper **air pollution control permits and certificates**.
The proposed fine totals **$1,057,000**, according to the report. State officials said the case reflects New Jersey’s effort to hold facilities accountable when they fail to comply with environmental rules designed to protect air quality and public health.
DataBank responded by saying it **disagrees with NJDEP’s findings** and is reviewing the matter. The company said it takes compliance seriously and is working through the state’s process.
The enforcement action centers on the Vineland site’s backup power system, which includes the large bank of diesel generators commonly used by data centers in case of outages. NJDEP said such equipment still falls under environmental oversight and must meet permit requirements.
The article notes that the case highlights broader concerns about the environmental impact of large infrastructure projects, especially facilities with substantial energy demands and backup fuel systems.
Source: **Josh Bakan, Patch**
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https://patch.com/new-jersey/westdeptford/nj-slaps-1m-fine-data-center-vineland
