CleanSpark's Bitcoin Mining Proposal Gains Initial Support in Tennessee

According to PANews, CleanSpark, a cryptocurrency mining company based in Nevada, has received preliminary support from the local planning committee for its proposed Bitcoin mining data center in Mountain City, Tennessee. However, full approval is contingent upon completing a detailed site plan and finalizing an agreement with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). Scott Garrison, the company's Chief Operating Officer, stated that if approved, the 50.48-acre mining facility could become operational within two months. The facility plans to use low-noise ASIC mining equipment to avoid air cooling, addressing community concerns about noise levels. Garrison assured that the equipment noise would be comparable to nearby road traffic. CleanSpark currently operates 31 similar mining facilities across the United States. The initial phase of the project is expected to create 12 high-paying jobs that do not require formal education, with potential for further expansion through the establishment of maintenance facilities. The company cited its Georgia project as an example of how it has helped workers improve their living conditions. Mountain City Power Manager Rodney Metcalf expressed support for the project, noting that its significant energy demand could help offset substantial electricity rate increases. Mayor Jerry Jordan described the proposal as promising but expressed dissatisfaction with planning delays. CleanSpark is awaiting TVA's energy plan decision in mid-May, with the planning committee set to review the proposal again on May 22.