Noise and black smoke reported from generators at a data centre in Clondalkin

What happened

Residents near the Echelon Data Centre in Clondalkin Industrial Estate reported intrusive noise during repeated night-time start-ups, loud enough to be heard through double glazing. Witnesses also reported thick black smoke from generator chimneys. A resident described that smoke as incomplete combustion and emission problems on site, but the operator and the regulator had not confirmed any failure. The environmental health office confirmed that the site is licensed by the Environmental Protection Agency and that noise complaints should be sent to the EPA. The report said the operator had been asked for comment and had not yet replied. The report did not mention injuries, fire or evacuation.

Contributing factors

The report describes repeated generator start-ups after midnight. The cause of the noise and smoke was not established. A resident's link to incomplete combustion remains unconfirmed.

Lessons learned

1. Backup generators near homes can prompt noise and smoke reports, so operators should be able to explain what the plant was doing.
2. Complaints about a licensed site need a clear route to the correct regulator.
3. Until the operator or regulator confirms a cause, reports of smoke should be treated as unverified.

Source

echo.ie