A planned Bitcoin mining operation near Hematite, Missouri, is awaiting final approval before it can begin.
HEMATITE, MO – Jefferson County could soon be a player in the global race to “mine” the Bitcoin cryptocurrency.
Reports indicate that NYDIG, a New York-based Bitcoin mining firm, is partnering with Global Connect Communications, a telecommunications company headquartered in Florida, to establish a Bitcoin mining facility. The proposed location is a secluded site just off Highway P in Hematite.
According to Mitch Bair, Director of County Services, Jefferson County is holding off on granting Global Connect Communications the final occupancy permit. This delay is due to the need for the company to secure a permanent access easement from the adjacent property, which is the Missouri National Guard Armory, located at 2740 Hwy. P.
Bair stated that the mining company intends to use the Armory’s existing gravel road to gain access to the property, which borders Joachim Creek.
Hematite Deputy Chief John Chartrand noted that the facility’s proximity to an Ameren substation makes it ideally suited for Bitcoin mining. Bitcoin mining operations require substantial electricity both for powering the mining systems and maintaining the necessary cooling for the computer systems.
Chartrand mentioned that once the occupancy permit is officially issued, the Bitcoin mining facility has the potential to commence operations almost immediately.
Read more at The Leader.
