Marathon Digital Sued for Noise Pollution by Texas Residents

Crypto Mining Giant Marathon Digital Faces Lawsuit Over Noise Pollution in Granbury, Texas

Residents of Granbury, Texas, have filed a lawsuit against Marathon Digital Holdings, Inc., a leading crypto mining company, alleging that the noise pollution from its Bitcoin mining operations is harming their health and disrupting their daily lives.

Health and Quality of Life Concerns

According to Earthjustice, a nonprofit environmental law firm representing the concerned citizens, the noise from the Bitcoin mine has led to serious health issues for at least two dozen locals. These issues include permanent hearing loss, debilitating migraines, tinnitus, and severe vertigo.

Rising Electricity Costs

The lawsuit also highlights increasing electricity costs in the community. Some residents have reported their bills rising by $100 to $200 per month, adding financial strain to the health concerns they already face.

Beyond financial strain, residents are also experiencing a sharp decline in property values. The relentless noise and vibrations from the crypto mine have turned peaceful homes into “prisons.”

Legal Actions and Demands

The lawsuit seeks a permanent injunction to stop Marathon from creating or allowing unreasonable noise from its operations. Additionally, it requests any appropriate relief to protect the community’s rights and well-being.

“Residents’ homes are no longer the refuge they once were. Marathon must take immediate action to reduce their overwhelming noise pollution,” said Rodrigo Cantú, a senior attorney at Earthjustice.

Previous Noise Complaints

The lawsuit follows multiple noise complaints filed by residents to local authorities, including the Hood County Constable and Sheriff’s Office, from November 2023 through March 2024.

In response to these complaints, Marathon attempted to mitigate the noise by constructing a 24-foot sound barrier. However, residents argue that these efforts have been insufficient, and local noise regulations are ineffective, with violations resulting in minimal fines.

Crypto Mining in Texas

Cryptocurrency mining, known for its constant noise from high-powered machines and cooling fans, has found a significant hub in Texas. Following China’s ban on crypto mining in 2021, Texas emerged as a top destination due to its affordable electricity rates and regulatory incentives.

By April 2023, Texas was home to five of the ten largest Bitcoin mining facilities in the U.S. However, the rapid growth of crypto mining has raised concerns about its impact on the state’s power grid, rising electricity costs for residents, and increasing reports of health issues.

Granbury Mining Site History

The Granbury mining site has changed ownership multiple times since its inception in 2022. Initially operated by Compute North Holdings, it later passed to U.S. Bitcoin Corp., then Hut 8 Mining Corp., before ultimately being taken over by Marathon Digital Holdings in early 2024.

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