A community in Texas has filed a lawsuit against a Bitcoin data mining company because of excessive noise and sound levels that they say are above the legal limit. Residents in Hood County argue that the company Mara Data Center is causing residents to suffer health problems because of the incessant noise.

The data mining company runs hundreds of computers around the clock in an effort to mine cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin. The process requires computers to run a series of algorithms continuously to “mine” the cryptocurrency. These algorithms, which are essentially mathematical calculations being processed, consume a lot of electrical energy and as a result cause computer systems and hardware to overheat. To counteract this, the data center runs large fans alongside the running computers to help cool systems down. The neighbors say the constant humming of the fans is a nuisance that violates community ordinances and is causing real harm.

One of the plaintiffs, 55-year-old Daniel Lakey, shared, “I suffer from lack of sleep.” He explains, “I don't sleep at all." He says that the noise levels have also caused his wife undue stress. His wife, who is diabetic, has seen an overall decline in her health because of the stress.

Lakey also highlights that he renovated a mobile home in his backyard for his daughter to live in. After his daughter and her husband and son moved in, Lakey’s grandson suffered at least four ear infections. He fears his son's ear infections were made worse because of the constant noise.

The company was quick to push back against the allegations. A spokesperson for MARA shared in part, “We categorically reject the allegations,” adding that the facility is in “a well-established industrial zone, and sound measurements around the facility are below legal limits."

The spokesperson doubled down regarding the allegations of adverse health effects, saying, in part, “There is no established link - medical or otherwise - between our operations and the broad ailments that are being alleged."

The plaintiffs share they recognize the company’s need to operate. Another neighbor, Liana Oechsle, who owns property nearby, says, "They're a business. That's what America does. I mean, they have a right to be here. They just have to be responsible and not hurt my animals."

Oechsle voiced concerns about bringing specific needs animals onto her farm for fear of negative health implications that might follow.

The lawsuit was filed earlier this month by Earthjustice, an environmental activist law group. Rodrigo Cantú, senior attorney at Earthjustice, shares, “If you’re constantly being denied a good night’s sleep, or you’re constantly having to deal with the noise in the background, that’s an unreasonable impact.”

The lawsuit is asking for an injunction to stop operations. Other residents simply want the company to be mindful of the residents who call the neighborhood home.