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Data Centers' Dirty Secret: Backup Generators Pollute
13 Jul
Summary
- Emergency orders allowed data centers to use backup generators during heat waves.
- These generators produce significant air pollution, worse than some power plants.
- Health impacts from generator emissions could cost millions annually.
During recent record-setting heat waves, federal emergency authorization was granted for data centers across 13 states to operate their backup diesel generators. This measure aimed to prevent grid strain and avoid residential power outages, as requested by PJM, the regional transmission organization. The authorization, initially for a few days in early July 2026, was extended, though ultimately not needed as PJM deployed other reliability tools.
Environmental advocates criticize this practice, stating that the backup generators, particularly older models, emit substantial amounts of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, which are more harmful than emissions from traditional power plants. Harvard University research suggests these emissions could lead to millions of dollars in annual health damages in affected counties, exacerbating respiratory conditions and other health problems.
Communities, especially in Northeast Pennsylvania, are increasingly concerned about the cumulative impact of numerous proposed data centers and their backup generators. Experts recommend quantifying health impacts before project approvals, setting clear runtime limits, requiring cleaner technology, and implementing public monitoring to mitigate risks.
