South Brunswick data center faces opposition over diesel generator permit

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) has extended the public comment period until November 9 for a proposed air permit regarding a new data center in South Brunswick. The extension follows requests from state legislators and significant opposition from Princeton officials and local residents.

Sentinel Data Centers plans to build a 341,000-square-foot facility on the former Princeton Nurseries site. The project includes a proposal for 12 diesel-fired emergency generators. However, critics and Princeton officials allege the company may actually intend to use 20 generators and store approximately 400,000 gallons of diesel on-site.

Opponents argue that the project’s emissions have been “misleadingly characterized as ‘minor sources’” and express concern over the impact on nearby schools, senior housing, and a local nature preserve. Legislators noted that the extension is necessary due to the technical complexity of the application and the need for residents to have meaningful opportunities to provide input following a public hearing attended by approximately 200 people.