Key Takeaways
- The lawsuit claims that Marathon’s Bitcoin mining site is causing severe discomfort due to the excessive noise generated by its operations.
- They are seeking legal intervention to either force the company to install noise-reduction measures or shut down the operation entirely
A group of residents from Granbury, Texas, has filed a class-action lawsuit against Marathon Digital Holdings, a leading Bitcoin mining company, accusing it of creating unbearable noise pollution that has disrupted their daily lives. The lawsuit, filed on October 4, 2024, in Hood County Court, claims that Marathon’s Bitcoin mining site is causing severe discomfort due to the excessive noise generated by its operations.
The mining facility, which houses over 20,000 machines operating non-stop, reportedly produces noise levels exceeding 85 decibels. This level of noise, according to the plaintiffs, has violated health regulations and led to numerous health issues, including migraines, hearing loss, and sleep disturbances. The constant hum of machines and cooling fans has been a persistent issue since early 2023, when the noise was first noticed by residents living nearby.
The plaintiffs, represented by environmental law firm Earthjustice, allege that Marathon Digital has ignored their repeated complaints. They are now seeking legal intervention to either force the company to install noise-reduction measures or shut down the operation entirely. “Even in their own homes, residents can hear the noise and feel the vibrations,” the lawsuit claims, adding that the mining facility has interfered with their ability to enjoy their properties.
Rodrigo Cantú, a senior attorney with Earthjustice, said in a statement on October 7 that his clients are pushing for Marathon to take “immediate action to reduce the noise or cease operations altogether.” The lawsuit also demands compensation for the emotional distress and financial burdens caused by the ongoing noise, such as increased electricity costs and lower property values.
Marathon’s facility is located near the Wolf Hollow gas plant and was originally built by Compute North Holdings in April 2022. After changing hands several times, Marathon took over the lease in January 2024, following its acquisition from rival miner Hut 8 Corp. The residents claim that the noise has been a constant nuisance ever since.
Texas has become a hotspot for cryptocurrency mining due to its low energy costs and favorable regulatory climate. Several large-scale operations, including Marathon’s, have set up shop in the state. However, the rapid expansion of these facilities has sparked concerns about their impact on local communities, particularly in terms of noise and energy consumption.
As of now, Marathon Digital has not responded to requests for comment regarding the lawsuit.