Greenidge Generation in legal battle with NY DEP over Dresden power plant permit

Bitcoin miner Greenidge Generation has filed a lawsuit against the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) challenging its decision to deny renewal of the Dresden power plant's Class V air permit, which the DEC denied in June 2022 for failure to comply with the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. Although Greenidge's appeal was denied in May 2024, the company was granted a four-month grace period that allowed it to continue operating under its existing permit until September 8th. Greenidge argued that the DEC's decision was “arbitrary and capricious” and interfered with the New York State Public Service Commission's jurisdiction over the generating facility. The company noted that the regulator's decision to shut down was based on its involvement in cryptocurrency mining, even though the facility also provides power to the grid, and Greenidge emphasized the facility's contribution to the state's economy, including jobs and tax revenue. If the DEC's decision is not reversed, Greenidge said it will be forced to close the facility by September 9th. The company noted that the Dresden facility provides clean power to the New York grid and is capable of supporting up to 20,000 homes and businesses.