Microsoft permit issued for expansion

QUINCY — The state Department of Ecology (DOE) granted Microsoft a permit to install 13 backup diesel generators for its Quincy date center expansion.

The generators could be used in case of a power outage.

The DOE received nearly 40 questions and comments about the permit as part of a “third-tier review of the health impact assessment,” explained Cathy Cochrane, a DOE spokesperson, on Wednesday.

The review was done because state rules have become stricter and a tax incentive resulted in more companies eyeing Quincy earlier this year.

Diesel engine exhaust is a toxic air pollutant.

“We’re requiring that Microsoft meet regularly with the school district, so the school district is fully informed when those generators will be running,” she said.

Cochrane said the state wanted to facilitate community interaction, so there’s community input on the generators’ operating schedule.

She said Microsoft didn’t have any problems with the responsiveness summary about the permit or changes made it.

The Columbia Basin Herald was unable to reach Microsoft Project Manager Sean James for comment on Wednesday.

“The final permit is built on sound science and a thorough, expert review,” stated Greg Flibbert, Ecology’s project manager for the Columbia Data Center permit.

“The questions we received from the public were well thought out and helped us make sure we had covered all the bases for protecting air quality while also ensuring that the local economy can gain from the benefits of Microsoft’s expansion,” Flibbert stated.

The questions, comments and answers are part of a document titled “Responsiveness Summary.”

To view the summary, visit www.ecy.wa.gov/pubs/1002032.pdf.

Copies are available for public review at Quincy Valley City Hall, 104 B St. SW, Quincy, Quincy Valley Library, 108 B St. SW, Quincy, DOE’s Eastern Regional Office, 4601 N. Monroe St., Spokane.