New Jersey fines DataOne $1.07 million for unpermitted generators

…of this size may not be enough to discourage billion-dollar infrastructure projects from moving ahead without approvals. DataOne’s response DataOne has disputed the state’s interpretation of the generators’ status. The company said it disagreed with the determination that the equipment was operating in violation of the state’s permitting requirements. However, DataOne also said it would apply for the permits and continue discussions with the DEP. The company has described the generators as part of a temporary power arrangement. It said the facility was transitioning…

…also being presented as a warning to the wider technology industry. State officials said data centers must comply with air-quality laws even when they are being built quickly or using equipment described as temporary. Governor Sherrill said the state was taking action to ensure that the growth of data centers did not come at the expense of communities or the environment. DEP Commissioner Ed Potosnak said the action was intended to send a message that developers would be held accountable for pollution violations. The fine is large in dollar terms, although environmental advocates argued…

…being built quickly or using equipment described as temporary. Governor Sherrill said the state was taking action to ensure that the growth of data centers did not come at the expense of communities or the environment. DEP Commissioner Ed Potosnak said the action was intended to send a message that developers would be held accountable for pollution violations. The fine is large in dollar terms, although environmental advocates argued that a penalty of this size may not be enough to discourage billion-dollar infrastructure projects from moving ahead without approvals.…