Future-Proofing Data Centers with Air Quality, Noise, and Environmental Expertise

Meeting the Environmental Challenges of Modern Data Centers

Data centers are the backbone of the digital economy, powering cloud computing, AI, and global connectivity. Yet, their high energy demands and reliance on backup generators make environmental compliance a growing challenge. Developers and operators must navigate a complex network of air quality, noise, and permitting requirements while maintaining uptime and community trust.

At Mostardi Platt, we help data centers plan, test, and operate responsibly—ensuring compliance today and resilience for tomorrow. Our engineers, scientists, and field specialists provide independent testing, air quality modeling, noise impact studies, and comprehensive environmental consulting to support every stage of facility development and operation.

Air Quality Testing and Emissions Compliance

Backup power systems and other mechanical equipment can emit pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), carbon monoxide (CO), and particulate matter (PM). Even limited generator use can elevate a facility’s potential to emit above regulatory thresholds.

Our Air Emissions Testing and Monitoring services include:

• Source Testing: Field measurement of emissions from backup generators and boilers to verify compliance with federal, state, and local standards.

• Performance Verification: Independent testing that validates manufacturer data, confirms control equipment (e.g., catalysts or filters) effectiveness, and supports emissions inventories.

• Continuous and Periodic Monitoring: Integration with Continuous Emissions and Parametric Monitoring Systems to track real-time compliance and detect operational variances.

• Audit and Compliance Support: Review of reporting systems, test schedules, and data management to prevent regulatory findings and ensure readiness for inspections.

Accurate emissions data is critical not just for compliance—but for operational optimization, transparency, and informed decision-making.

Air Quality Modeling and Permitting Support

Mostardi Platt’s air dispersion modeling experts use AERMOD and related tools to assess pollutant impacts on surrounding communities and to support permitting under the Clean Air Act and EPA programs.

Our modeling services provide:

• Input data derived from verified emissions testing.

• Analyses for National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) and Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) compliance.

• Evaluations of cumulative impacts, source aggregation, and Environmental Justice review areas.

• Scenario-based modeling to evaluate design changes or the addition of new equipment.

This comprehensive approach ensures that permit applications are technically defensible, complete, and aligned with both state and federal expectations.

Noise Studies and Compliance Assessments

Noise is an emerging concern for communities near large data centers, particularly where 24/7 power systems operate. Mostardi Platt’s acoustic engineers conduct detailed noise impact assessments to ensure compliance with state and local ordinances.

Our noise services include:

• Baseline (Pre-Project) Monitoring: Measurement of existing ambient sound levels to establish community background conditions.

• Operational (Post-Project) Testing: Verification of sound levels during operation to demonstrate compliance and maintain community trust.

• Noise Modeling: Predictive modeling to evaluate equipment noise propagation and assess the effectiveness of proposed noise control technologies such as enclosures, silencers, or barriers.

Through proactive study and mitigation, we help clients design and operate facilities that meet technical requirements while maintaining positive community relationships.

Environmental Consulting for Sustainable Operations

Beyond emissions and noise, Mostardi Platt provides multi-disciplinary environmental consulting to address every phase of a data center’s life cycle:

• Site evaluations and permitting strategies.

• Compliance management systems and reporting.

• Greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories and sustainability planning.

• Emergency power and fuel storage evaluations (SPCC and FRP).

• Environmental due diligence for expansion and redevelopment projects.

Our consultants work seamlessly with developers, architects, and operators to balance project goals with environmental responsibility.

Partnering for Long-Term Success

Environmental responsibility is no longer just a compliance requirement—it’s a competitive advantage. By partnering with Mostardi Platt, data center operators gain:

• Independent, scientifically defensible data.

• Regulatory insight based on decades of permitting experience.

• Proven strategies to manage air quality, noise, and sustainability risks.

• Confidence in the performance and reputation of their facilities.

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