Plattsburgh Considers Temporary Ban on Crypto Mining and AI Data Centers

The town of Plattsburgh in New York is reconsidering its stance on high-energy computing projects, including crypto mining and AI data centers. A proposed 12-month moratorium on new land use approvals for facilities requiring at least 300 kilowatts has been put forth.

The debate follows a previous 18-month ban on Bitcoin mining imposed in 2018 due to concerns over electricity costs. The latest proposal aims to address energy consumption and potential strain on the local power grid.

Mayor Wendell Hughes has not yet approved the moratorium, with a follow-up council meeting scheduled for September 17. The shift towards AI data centers reflects industry changes driven by rising power costs and weaker token prices.