Diesel generators emit harmful pollutants, including nitrogen oxides (NOx) and carbon dioxide (CO2), all of which contribute to air pollution and exacerbate respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Routine use of generators, as allowed under the proposed guidance, would increase exposure to these pollutants, particularly in communities near data centers.

Additionally, regular use of diesel generators runs counter to Virginia's environmental goals. These emissions contribute to climate change and degrade air quality, undermining efforts to transition to cleaner energy solutions and reduce pollution across the state.

Diesel generators create significant noise pollution. The constant hum and rumble of these engines disrupt the peace and quiet of surrounding neighborhoods, affecting the quality of life for resident. The last time they ran it sounded like someone was constantly running their lawn mower just outside our window and made it difficult to sleep. We like to open our house in the spring through fall to let in fresh air this would destroy that ability.

The proposed guidance would allow data centers to use diesel generators during "planned outages" and not "emergencies." Planned outages are, by definition, not sudden or unforeseeable events. Data centers can—and should—prepare for such outages using cleaner, more sustainable alternatives, such as renewable energy or grid-connected storage solutions. Allowing routine use of diesel generators under the guise of "planned outages" creates an unnecessary environmental burden and risks exacerbating public health issues.