Diesel generators–one of the most polluting forms of energy generation–were only ever meant to serve as backup power in emergency situations. The DEQ is proposing a change for data centers that would allow thousands of diesel generators in our area to run during planned outage events. Data centers in our area are still submitting permits for Tier 1 and 2 diesel generators, which the EPA acknowledges “contribute significantly to air pollution.”  The DEQ proposal is driven by the industry’s desire to expedite timelines and avoid paying for more expensive options, such as Tier 4 generators, that are better equipped to protect public health. 

The “DEQ's Mission is to protect and enhance the environment of Virginia in order to promote the health and well-being of the Commonwealth's citizens, residents, and visitors in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.” Yet this proposal contradicts that mission. The DEQ does not monitor, nor regulate, thecumulative, detrimental, effects of the thousands of data center diesel generators in our area. 

Living adjacent to what is now planned to be Fairfax County’s “digital gateway”, we oppose this proposal.