WATKINS GLEN, Apr. 16, 2021 — “Bitcoin mining interests have called Watkins Glen officials in recent weeks to explore the possibility of setting up a cryptocurrency processing operation within the village to take advantage of its cheap electric rates.
Meanwhile, the village trustees recently voted 3-2 against a resolution calling for a moratorium on expanding Bitcoin mining operation at the Greenidge Generation power plant in Dresden.
Local environmental groups have sued to try to block the expansion. They have warned that the increased power use will boost warm water discharges, which may promote toxic algal blooms. Furthermore, added energy use will raise air emissions, likely leading to conflict with the state law that calls for a 40 percent cut in greenhouse gas emissions.”
