Buncombe County, North Carolina Imposes One-Year Bitcoin Mining Moratorium

Buncombe County, North Carolina has enacted a one-year moratorium on commercial Bitcoin mining following a public hearing on May 2. The decision was made to allow time for the development of zoning standards and regulations for special land use related to cryptocurrency mining.

In contrast to previous moratoriums in the state, which faced no objections, the public hearing saw Bitcoin supporters voicing their concerns about the ban. Four speakers highlighted issues such as financial freedom, strengthening the grid through demand response programs, sustainable energy investment and use, First Amendment rights protection, and promoting innovation.

However, three attendees expressed their support for the ban, citing concerns about noise pollution and the need to conserve energy to meet Governor Roy Cooper’s climate goals. Despite the pushback, the moratorium was passed unanimously by the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners.

According to the Buncombe County website, the current ordinances do not define cryptocurrency mining as a specific use. The imposed ban aims to address the potential negative effects of mining operations on surrounding neighborhoods, such as excessive energy use, pollution, and noise. The one-year moratorium is effective immediately and will last until May 1, 2024.