A Bitcoin mining data center in El Reno, Oklahoma, is facing a lot of backlash after a massive leak reportedly released 3 million gallons of water, forcing schools, businesses and city and county offices to close last week. The incident has also raised questions about how the facility was operating after the city had issued a Stop Work Order in 2023.
Bitcoin mining facility was ordered to stop work
According to KOCO TV News, the data center is owned by Athlon Blockchain LLC. The city issued a Stop Work Order in 2023 over “multiple fire and life safety code violations as well as the expiration of the building and electrical permits that had previously been issued.”
The property owner was reportedly given until the end of 2023 to correct the violations and obtain new permits. Construction was expected to remain on hold until those requirements were met. However, the facility apparently went ahead with operations.
3 million gallons of water leaked
The latest incident has brought the Bitcoin mining facility back into focus. An estimated 3 million gallons of water reportedly leaked from the property, disrupting the community and contributing to the closure of schools, businesses and government offices.
The city reportedly believes the company building the facility set up the data center and began operations without further consultation with local officials.
It remains unclear how the facility continued operating despite the earlier Stop Work Order. The report also raises the possibility that the Bitcoin mining operation was housed in shipping containers, although the circumstances surrounding its operation remain unclear.
City plans legal action over costs
El Reno officials say local residents will not be left with the bill for the water leak. The city says it is pursuing the property owner for costs associated with the incident and its response.
