Amazon's data centers in Eastern Oregon are equipped with diesel generators that could significantly pollute the air during a blackout. An investigation found these generators could emit twice the pollution of all cars and trucks in the state. While Amazon claims a large-scale outage is unlikely, current generators pose a substantial risk. Future facilities are expected to use cleaner backup systems. This situation raises concerns about the balance between economic benefits and environmental health.
Boardman, Oregon
https://www.opb.org/article/2026/07/22/data-centers-pollution-oregon-first-look/