Residents of Granbury, Texas, have united to file a lawsuit against the cryptocurrency mining company Marathon Digital, citing excessive noise from its nearby Bitcoin mining facility. The complaint, lodged on October 4 in Hood County Court, describes the noise as a considerable disturbance that causes significant discomfort for those living in close proximity to the site.
Local inhabitants report experiencing a range of negative health effects, including fatigue, migraines, and memory problems, stemming from the continuous noise and vibrations associated with the mining operations. Many claim that their existing medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, have worsened due to the relentless disruption. The lawsuit details how residents can hear the noise and feel the vibrations even when they are inside their homes, asserting that the situation has severely hindered their enjoyment of their properties.
In addition to the health impacts, the lawsuit also raises concerns about the financial implications of the mining activities. Residents allege that the substantial energy consumption required for the operations has led to increased electricity bills and decreased property values in the area. The affected residents, represented by a senior attorney from the nonprofit Earthjustice, are demanding that Marathon take immediate measures to either alleviate the noise pollution or cease operations entirely.
The plaintiffs are seeking a permanent court injunction to prevent the mining facility from generating unreasonable noise, as well as compensation for damages and legal costs. The Granbury Bitcoin mine, initially constructed in April 2022, has undergone several ownership changes, with Marathon assuming control in January. The facility reportedly houses a considerable number of mining rigs, contributing to its claimed hashrate of 4.3 ExaHashs per second.
This lawsuit mirrors recent actions taken by residents in other regions, such as Norway, where a mining operation was shut down due to noise complaints. However, the consequences of such closures can lead to higher electricity costs for local residents, highlighting the complex balance between cryptocurrency mining operations and community well-being.
