A Bitcoin mining plant operated by Greenidge Generation LLC has been accused of heating Seneca Lake by the residents of Dresden, New York. Seneca Lake is the deepest and one of the largest lakes in Finger Lakes in upstate New York.
Bitcoin Mining Heating Lake, Killing Marine Life - Residents
Speaking to NBC, the residents disclosed that the gas-fired power plant is heating the lake and causing pollution. One of the residents, Abi Buddington, told the news outlet that the lake now feels as warm as a hot tub as the temperature rises. Other residents also expressed concerns about how the high temperatures are killing marine life. The trout species of fish that is common in the lake is a key concern for locals. The fish only thrives in temperatures between 52F and 64F, levels above 75F are lethal for some. These accusations by the locals have been previously refuted by Greenidge's spokesperson, Michael McKeon, who denied the firm’s influence in the Lake’s rising temperature.“We are not blasting heated water into the lake, that's not true. We have the most advanced technology and we will continue to invest in the most advanced technology to protect the fish in the lake.”Greenidge uses no less than 8,000 computers 24/7, burning through an enormous amount of energy to mine virtual currency. Greenidge claims its Bitcoin mining operations are now carbon neutral. In May, the firm revealed plans to purchase carbon offsets as part of its sustainability goals. However, Judith Enck, a former regional administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), does not agree with the firm’s plans or actions. Enck said carbon offsets are not particularly effective in reaching greenhouse gas reduction goals. She added that there is no system in place to regulate it in New York.