US data centre ran dozens of generators without permits for nearly a year, report finds

A Microsoft-linked data centre in New Jersey emitted large amounts of air pollution while operating gas-powered generators without permits for nearly a year, according to an investigation by Floodlight and The Guardian.

The report revealed that DataOne’s facility in Vineland operated 62 generators, which had collectively run for more than 46,000 hours before state inspectors identified them in July 2026.

Xiaomeng Jin, an assistant professor at Rutgers University, estimated the generators released about 140 tons of nitrogen oxides, or NOx, potentially placing DataOne among New Jersey’s five largest NOx polluters in 2025.

“Our best estimate is that the generators emitted about 140 tons of NOx,” Jin told Floodlight.

NOx pollution has been linked to asthma, heart problems and premature death.

New Jersey regulators recently fined DataOne $1 million for operating the generators without required permits.

DataOne disputes the state’s determination that permits were required but said it now plans to apply for them.

The company said it was “transitioning to low-emission, quiet fuel cells as part of the site’s permanent power solution and have the necessary approvals in place for this solution”.

Microsoft said it expects suppliers and partners to comply with applicable laws and regulations.