Neighbors are frustrated with North Tonawanda bitcoin mine

NORTH TONAWANDA, NY (WIVB) – Many people in North Tonawanda are deeply concerned about the constant noise and air quality in their neighborhoods. It’s all because of a bitcoin mining facility nearby. Now residents are asking Gov. Kathy Hochul to intervene.

Digihost has been in operation at the Fortistar power plant for a little over a year. Climate protection group EarthJustice says the mine’s carbon emissions are high and air pollution at the facility is expected to skyrocket.

Neighbors across from the facility say they experience significant noise, air and light pollution from the mine.

“Pretty constant hum all day and all night,” Elliott Kennedy told News 4. “Putting a factory next to a neighborhood isn’t the best solution, period, I’d say. Either move or close.”

Due to the loud noises that neighbors heard throughout the day, the company was asked to build a soundproof wall.

“It was like a piercing. It was hard to sleep at night,” added Paul Hoover. “Also, they have a really bright light here that shines straight into my bedroom window, which is really handy.”

However, residents remain concerned that the facility is currently underutilized and the noise could return.

“I think the wall helped when I heard her walking, it deadens the noise. My concern is what it will be like when they work 24/7,” said John Hahn.

North Tonawanda Mayor Austin Tylec said he proposed a moratorium on the project when he took office to address these issues, but this was rejected. He also said Digihost tries to be a good neighbor and agreed to improve the barrier along Erie Ave. to be erected, but it does not yet enclose the entire base area.

“We’ve seen some noise abatement efforts on their part, but the emissions contribution really goes beyond our local level of government,” Tylec said.

The non-profit organization earth justice says the DEC has still not approved a clean air permit for the site. The organization sent a letter to Governor Hochul asking her to deny it.

“If Title 5 approval for the facility is denied, the facility should not be able to operate. You have an opportunity to appeal this decision to the Department of Environmental Protection,” said Jessamine De Ocampo, associate counsel for EarthJustice.

EarthJustice and local residents await approval or denial of the DEC to fly. News 4 has contacted DEC and Digihost with no response.