Plattsburgh considers short-term ban on crypto ventures

PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. (WCAX) - Plattsburgh is considering a short-term ban on any crypto ventures.

Plattsburgh is known for attracting crypto miners because of its low electric rates. Mayor Wendell Hughes says if passed, the temporary ban would give the city time to codify new zoning changes. He says those new changes would ensure the city’s energy allotment from the state isn’t eaten up by new crypto or data centers, which he says can use 50 megawatts.

“Our total allotment for the City of Plattsburgh is 105MW. So, that’s a half of the usage in the city of Plattsburgh. You know, we have to protect the city of Plattsburgh,” Hughes said.

The mayor says the proposed measure will head to will to the county for approval before returning to the Common Council for a vote. He adds that the high-energy facilities don’t contribute to higher utility rates for residents.

Plattsburgh in 2018 became the first U.S. city to halt the activity until regulators caught up with the new technology.