Alcoa, the largest aluminum producer in the United States, is in advanced negotiations to sell its dormant Massena East smelter located in upstate New York to the New York Digital Investment Group (NYDIG), a Bitcoin mining firm. The deal is anticipated to close by mid-2026. The Massena East site has been inactive since 2014 but retains significant electrical infrastructure, which is crucial for energy-intensive operations like Bitcoin mining. The site's access to carbon-free hydropower from the New York Power Authority makes it particularly attractive for firms seeking low-cost energy. This move aligns with a broader trend where industrial facilities are being repurposed for digital infrastructure, as seen with TeraWulf's recent acquisition of a Kentucky smelter. The shift highlights the growing convergence between cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence sectors, with substantial investments flowing into AI-focused firms.