Datacenter Noise Lawsuit: Residents Hear Drone Miles Away

A new lawsuit filed in Vineland, New Jersey, alleges that the noise generated by the DataOne datacenter is a significant nuisance, impacting residents up to a mile away. Named plaintiffs, like Steve Brown, describe being woken by a persistent drone emanating from the facility, which is over a mile from their homes.

This legal action brings attention to sound pollution as a major concern associated with datacenters, often overshadowed by issues like electricity demand and water usage. Attorneys involved in similar cases nationwide indicate this is part of a rising trend of opposition to datacenter developments.

The Vineland facility, a 2.4 million square-foot operation, was rapidly constructed on the site of a former golf course, contracting with Nebius, a Yandex spin-off, in October 2024. Despite DataOne's efforts to address concerns through town halls and a dedicated website, residents' complaints persist.

Historically, noise pollution regulation has waned since the 1980s when federal funding for noise control offices was eliminated. However, recent legal victories for advocacy groups like Quiet Communities Inc., which sued the EPA for failing to regulate sound, may signal a shift. Experts note that low-frequency noise, often experienced as vibration, can travel long distances and have physiological impacts.

DataOne stated it is implementing sound mitigation measures, including a northerly wall, adjusted construction timing, and the use of quiet fuel cells. The company also noted it has retained a sound mitigation specialist and is committed to dialogue and regulatory compliance, though it declined to comment on ongoing litigation. Nebius echoed these commitments, emphasizing their work with DataOne to minimize impacts.