New Jersey hits Microsoft-linked AI data center with record fine for 62 unpermitted power generators, issues 45-day shutdown deadline — site tied to $33 billion deal also built illegal 1.5M-gallon fuel tank

The DataOne data center in Vineland, New Jersey, has just been hit with a record $1.07 million fine for operating unpermitted portable generators on the construction site. According to the New York Times, state inspectors spotted 62 of these units powering the facility back in late July.

Residents had already complained about it at a February town hall meeting. Inspectors said that there were no generators on site when they first visited in December last year. However, some residents said that “some type of unit” was spotted by satellite imagery back in February, leading to their complaint at the community assembly.

Residents of Vineland have already made multiple complaints about the development. Some of the issues t include the unpermitted construction of a 1.5-million-gallon LNG tank and unacceptable noise levels, especially at night, that affected homes within a half-mile radius of the construction site. They also said that there was little to no public consultation on the…