If New Jersey wants to remain competitive in shaping high-tech industries and the new jobs they create, it must also welcome responsible investments in the infrastructure needed to power the next generation of artificial intelligence, NJBIA testified on Wednesday night.
NJBIA Research Analyst Jack Ramirez submitted written testimony to the Vineland Planning Board, which met at the Landis Theater to accommodate a large turnout for a hearing on developer DataOne’s application seeking amended site plan approval for a 300-megawatt AI data center campus that will be operated by the Netherlands-based AI cloud company Nebius.
The project, phase one of which is nearly finished, originally received board approval in 2025 and the developer is now seeking changes as part of a phase two expansion that would support the needs of more advanced AI capabilities, including on-site power generation that does not impact the grid or ratepayers. The board did not issue a decision on the matter Wednesday.
In his testimony, Ramirez said if New Jersey is to become a global center for innovation, it must also be a destination for responsible AI development. He noted Gov. Mikie Sherrill has set four guardrails for new AI data centers: projects should provide their own power or pay their fair share of the power they require from the grid; be transparent; benefit local communities; and create well-paying local jobs.
“Based on the information presented throughout this process, we believe this proposed data center has demonstrated that it meets each of those standards, reflecting the kind of responsible development New Jersey should encourage,” Ramirez said.
“If New Jersey wants to remain competitive with states that are aggressively attracting technology investment, we must demonstrate that we are open for business and committed to responsible growth,” Ramirez said. “Companies looking to invest need confidence that New Jersey welcomes innovation while maintaining high standards for environmental protection and community engagement.”
Ramirez cited new research from Georgia Institute of Technology that highlights the economic opportunities that data centers create. The study found that when a data center opens, host counties experience employment growth of approximately 3.5%, wage growth of about 5%, and household income growth of roughly 2%.
“The research also suggests that strong local engagement and advocacy help communities capture the greatest share of those benefits,” Ramirez said. “Judging by the thoughtful participation we've seen throughout this process, Vineland seems well-positioned to ensure this investment delivers meaningful, long-term value for local residents and businesses.”
Ramirez said it was understandable that a large data center project like this would raise concerns from the local community.
“That is why we believe the best path forward is not to choose between economic growth and community responsibility, but to pursue both,” Ramirez said. “The questions surrounding water, energy, and local impacts are important. At the same time, New Jersey should continue demonstrating that it can responsibly build the infrastructure needed to support innovation and attract investment.
“We believe Vineland has an opportunity to show that responsible development and economic leadership can go hand in hand, and we encourage the Board/Council to continue moving this project forward while ensuring the community remains an active part of the conversation,” Ramirez said.
To read Ramirez’s complete testimony, go here.
