Prohibit Backup Diesel Generators

Some data centers are installing backup generators, often diesel, to provide power in the event of power outages. Localities should prohibit data centers from running on-site diesel generators. Localities should also protect against developer work-arounds, such as developers acquiring permits from adjacent jurisdictions.

If it is necessary to enable data centers to provide backup power generation, the following measures should be taken:

Notification

Communities must be notified when backup generators are being used or tested.

Permit Control

Permits for backup generators must be strictly controlled and regulated through a local agency, such as the local health department. Compliance must be routinely investigated and violators should have their permits revoked.

Require Pollution Control Equipment

Require data center operators to install pollution control equipment on all back-up generators.

Jurisdiction Requirements

Specify that permits from other localities are not valid.

Cumulative Impact Reporting

Require permitting decisions to consider existing air-pollution burdens and determine whether the addition of another source will exacerbate these impacts to an unacceptable degree.