I am absolutely opposed to giving data centers the option to run generators as a method to provide power during planned outages. Planned outages, such as while transmission lines are built or worked on, are considered foreseeable, meaning data center operators have sufficient time — and are expected to — seek alternative options. Options typically used include: a) renting mobile Tier IV gas generators with higher pollution controls, or b) retrofitting Tier II generators with SCRs (selective catalytic reduction systems) to protect the public from pollution. 

Diesel generators should be constrained to only emergency use as they were originally intended. I am certain operators — having made the investment to buy them — would love to get some more use out of them. However, they are extraordinarily bad for the environment with tremendous air pollution. As a retired Navy man, I know all about using diesel generators for emergency uses. That makes sense and was the original purpose for equipping data centers with backup generators. We cannot  afford the decrease in clean air that this rule would provide. Don’t let it happen!