Maryland Approves Air Quality Permit for Amazon's Frederick Data Center with Backup Generators
The Maryland Department of the Environment has approved an air quality permit for Amazon to build a data center in Frederick, allowing the installation of 99 diesel-fired emergency backup generators. The permit imposes strict emissions limits and usage restrictions, requiring generators to function only during emergencies and for testing. Amazon must also submit annual emissions certifications and secure an oil permit before storing diesel fuel on-site.

The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) has granted Amazon an air quality permit for a new data center in Frederick, permitting the installation of 99 diesel-fired emergency backup generators. The permit restricts the generators' operation to emergency situations and testing only, with limits on nitrogen oxide emissions.
MDE will perform inspections and require annual emissions reports from Amazon. Before using diesel fuel, Amazon must secure an oil permit and maintain a spill prevention plan, addressing local residents' concerns about generator placement near neighborhoods and schools.
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