Billings Pulmonologist Raises Data Center Health Concerns
A Billings pulmonologist told Yellowstone County commissioners that a proposed Quantica data center could increase air pollution and public-health risks, particularly if it relies on natural-gas generation. Quantica says the project could generate nearly 1,800 jobs and support reliable power, while critics dispute its environmental impact.
Dr. Robert Merchant, a Billings pulmonologist, raised concerns before the Yellowstone County Commission about the potential health effects of a proposed data center and associated natural-gas power generation. He cited risks from fine particulate matter and other air pollutants, including increased respiratory illness, heart attacks, strokes and missed work. Merchant said the facility could be substantially larger than the Laurel Generating Station and described himself as an opponent of the data center project.
Quantica has said it plans to build the data center and that its power strategy is intended to ensure reliable electricity while creating nearly 1,800 jobs. A company spokesperson said critics were overstating the emissions concerns and argued that the project would bring economic benefits to the community. The discussion also referenced analyses from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Montana Department of Environmental Quality regarding air-pollution risks and emissions.