Bitcoin miner Revolve Labs proposes $60m data center in Minnesota

As a seasoned crypto investor with roots in Minnesota, I find myself both intrigued and cautiously optimistic about the latest developments in Bitcoin mining within my home state. On one hand, it’s exciting to see local companies like Revolve Labs expanding their operations and potentially bringing economic benefits to communities like Glencoe. The prospect of a $60 million data center could be a significant boost for the city, as suggested by Dave Meyer’s comments on net annual revenue.


A Bitcoin mining firm based in Colorado, known as Revolve Labs, has unveiled intentions to construct a $60 million data center in Glencoe, Minnesota, with the goal of increasing their mining capabilities.

As reported by the Minnesota Star Tribune, the planned setup encompasses one or two AI-driven data centers, cooling systems, and backup power generators. The objective behind this setup is to enhance the company’s capacity to handle Bitcoin (BTC) transactions, all while addressing any potential issues related to noise pollution in the area.

The project we’re considering at this point is expected to hire roughly 10 individuals and its estimated budget falls between $40 million and $60 million.

The company discussed the project in a September meeting with the Glencoe Economic Development Authority. The site, which spans approximately 6.2 acres, would house both the data center infrastructure and a new power substation to support the expansion, per the Star Tribune. 

Mining Bitcoin involves running powerful computers to tackle intricate mathematical puzzles that confirm transactions within the Bitcoin system. The successful miners get paid with Bitcoins as remuneration. Facilities such as those proposed by Revolve Labs play a crucial role in providing the necessary computational resources and energy for these operations, which can be quite demanding.

In relevant updates concerning cryptocurrencies and Minnesota, the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis recently released a research document dated October 17th, advocating for either a prohibition or a taxation of Bitcoin to preserve ongoing budget surpluses.

The research classifies Bitcoin as a “fiscal straitjacket,” limiting the ability of governments, particularly those heavily dependent on nominal debt, to execute their policies effectively.

Bitcoin mining noise complaints

Controversy has arisen over the operation of mines in Glencoe, with concerns centered around the loud sounds produced by the mining machinery and cooling apparatus, as reported by the Star Tribune.

People living nearby have expressed worries about noise levels that can go as high as 85 decibels, which is similar to the sound of a lawnmower. Revolve Labs has faced similar complaints in other places like Windom, Minnesota, where they dropped an earlier expansion plan after facing strong opposition from the community.

In a similar vein, Texas communities find themselves with Bitcoin mining operations and are drawing businesses such as Marathon Digital and Hut 8 thanks to their affordable energy prices and adaptable power systems.

Consequently, an increase in mining activities in Texas has resulted in noise levels reaching up to 91 decibels, which in turn has led to hearing problems, headaches, and sleep disruptions for nearby residents. This health predicament has been more pronounced among the elderly, sparking worries about the potential effects of mining on the overall health of the community.

Despite concerns of noise, Revolve Labs operations have generated significant economic benefits for the city of Glencoe. According to Dave Meyer, general manager of the Glencoe Light and Power Commission, Revolve Labs’ mining operations have brought in more than $500,000 in net annual revenue for the city. 

These resources are allocated towards enhancing public infrastructure, specifically by upgrading streetlights and thus curbing the rise of electricity costs for local citizens.

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2024-10-21 18:36