Ohio EPA Holds Hearing on Amazon Data Center Generators

The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency is considering a draft air emissions permit for an Amazon Web Services data center in Hilliard, Ohio. The proposal involves the installation of 158 emergency generators powered by ultra-low-sulfur diesel or hydrogenated vegetable oil diesel. To address the proposal, the agency held a public meeting on March 19 at The Well in Hilliard to present permit details and collect community feedback.

During the hearing, local residents and Norwich Township Trustee Brian Rothenburg voiced opposition to the project, citing concerns over air and water quality. Critics highlighted the facility's proximity to homes, parks, and Beacon Elementary School. While the Ohio EPA stated that the generators would operate for approximately 50 hours annually for maintenance and would require operation tracking, residents demanded more stringent accountability and on-site monitoring.

The agency indicated that public input will influence the final approval decision and any resulting restrictions. Stakeholders are permitted to submit additional comments online or by mail through March 25.