On Monday, researchers from Cornell University will present their analysis of 3,919 files containing public comments sent to the Department of Environmental Conservation regarding Greenidge Generation’s air permit renewal.
After FOILing for the comments, researchers used text analysis to find that at least 98% of the public comments are opposed to Greenidge, a peaker plant converted to a 24/7 Bitcoin mine by the Connecticut-based private equity firm that owns it. Researchers will provide anonymized sample comments consistent with NYS FOIL laws, and a demonstration of their simple-to-understand technology and methodology.
The DEC has consistently cited the need to sift through comments as part of the reason for the now six month delay in making a decision. The new deadline is June 30th, two days after the gubernatorial primary.
Advocates will urge Governor Hochul and the DEC to respond to the public’s overwhelming opposition by denying Greenidge’s permits and putting a moratorium on climate-killing cryptomining.
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