Bitcoin miner Greenidge Generation wins legal battle in New York

Greenidge Generation Holdings Inc. will continue operating its Dresden, New York, facility following a legal victory against the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation.

According to a Nov. 14 press release, the New York Supreme Court ruled in favor of Greenidge, overturning the Department of Environmental Conservation’s denial of a Title V Air Permit.

Judge Vincent Dinolfo deemed the Department of Environmental Conservation’s actions “arbitrary and capricious” and criticized its interpretation of the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. The court found that the DEC failed to provide a rational basis for its decision, effectively clearing the path for Greenidge to operate uninterrupted.

The conflict began in August when Greenidge sued the DEC over the agency’s decision to deny the air permit renewal. The DEC argued that the facility did not align with the state’s climate regulations, citing the CLCPA. Greenidge countered that the denial overstepped the DEC’s authority and disregarded the facility’s compliance with existing laws.

Despite an appeal dismissal in May, Greenidge secured a four-month operational waiver, which allowed it to continue until September. The court’s recent decision now ensures Greenidge’s long-term operations.

Political overreach

In a statement, Greenidge described the ruling as a victory for “facts and the rule of law” over what it called “politically motivated governmental overreach.” 

The company emphasized its compliance with regulations and highlighted contributions to the local economy, including high-tech job creation and electricity generation.

This ruling marks Greenidge’s seventh favorable decision on operational matters. The company expressed hope for future collaboration with the Department of Environmental Conservation to finalize a new permit that aligns with the court’s decision.

Greenidge’s case underscores the tension between environmental regulations and industrial operations as New York balances climate goals with economic development.