Bitcoin’s energy usage is huge – we can't afford to ignore it

https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2018/jan/17/bitcoin-electricity-usage-huge-climate-cryptocurrency?CMP=share_btn_tw

by ehudla • 8 years ago

26 3 8 years ago

theguardian.com

gervase• 8 years ago

More commentary found here:

https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=16173345

CaliforniaKarl• 8 years ago

If I remember correctly, some areas already have a fair amount of power infrastructure that is currently dedicated just to mining. I hope that the power providers in those areas have enough guarantees (with insurance, bonds, etc. backing it up) to ensure that the miners don't just walk away when the price gets too low.

DoctorBit• 8 years ago

In Newport, Washington, electricity is so inexpensive ($0.05/kWh) that almost everyone uses electric baseboard heat - and it gets very cold (10 degrees Fahrenheit) in the winter. Those baseboard heaters could be swapped out with bitcoin miners with NO change in power consumption, and there are plenty of other places around the world with similar conditions.

Bitcoin’s energy usage is huge – we can't afford to ignore it

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