- Texas is now the leading state for large-scale cryptocurrency mining facilities in the U.S.
- Crypto mining operations use significant electricity and water, adding stress to local infrastructure.
- Residents face increased power costs, power outages, and noise-related health complaints.
- Environmental concerns are rising due to fossil fuel use and high carbon emissions from mining.
- Community groups and whistleblowers are raising concerns, while some politicians continue to support the industry.
Cryptocurrency mining operations have expanded rapidly in Texas, making the state the largest hub for this activity in the country. Large-scale crypto mines moved to Texas for its cheaper electricity and relaxed regulations after China banned crypto mining in 2021.
According to the Texas Observer, Texas currently hosts about 40 mining facilities, while the rest of the United States has around 24. Crypto mining involves using powerful computers to solve complex calculations, with successful results yielding digital currency rewards such as Bitcoin. Modern operations require massive data centers, increasing demand for both energy and water.
Residents have reported a range of problems since the arrival of these mining centers. The Texas electrical grid has struggled to handle spikes in demand caused by mining operations, leading to higher energy prices and even power outages during emergencies. “Texas’ grid is still very fragile. The improvements made so far by the state are inadequate for what’s coming,” said Corsicana resident John Blewitt to the Texas Observer. He added, “[The crypto industry isn’t] interested in investing in alternative energy. They want a lot of energy, a lot of electricity, right now, which means burning fossil fuels. The industry creates an enormous carbon footprint. Climate change is real.”
A local resident observed that a crypto mine continued to consume power while Houston faced outages during Hurricane Beryl. Mining activity can also cause blackouts and add pressure to Texas’s water supply because large amounts of water are needed to keep servers cool. Many residents in drought-prone areas have raised concerns about water usage at these facilities.
Additional problems include high noise levels from mining machinery, with some residents reporting headaches, vertigo, hearing loss, and sleep disturbances. Some say the noise is even louder at night, making it difficult to sleep or concentrate at home.
Despite these complaints, former President Donald Trump and several other politicians have voiced support for the crypto mining industry. In response, local groups like the Texas Coalition Against Cryptomining have formed to oppose new mining developments and file legal challenges. Inside some mining companies, whistleblowers have spoken out about unsafe working conditions. “That place is a death trap. I’m surprised someone has not got killed up there yet,” said electrician Chris Jones, referring to a Riot crypto mining site in Navarro County. “It’s the most dangerous place I ever worked, and I used to work in coal mines.”
Activists continue to push for stricter oversight, citing ongoing risks to residents, the environment, and local resources. For more details, see the original report by the Texas Observer.
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