Insights into Bitcoin Mining Expenditure and Sustainability

In the initial months of 2024, US-based Bitcoin miners expended a substantial $2.7 billion on electricity. Noted analyst Paul Hoffman from Best Brokers highlighted that Bitcoin mining operations in the US devoured a staggering 20,822.62 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of electricity since the onset of 2024. By February, at an average commercial electricity rate of $0.1281 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), this translated to an expense of $2,667,378,196.47.

Bitcoin Mining Expenditure Overview

Hoffman further elucidated that this energy expenditure could power every electric vehicle in the US 87.52 times or supply energy to 1,983,107 households for a year, encompassing 1.51% of total US households.

Globally, a total of 116,550 Bitcoin valued at $8.2 billion have been successfully mined, with US miners contributing 44,102 Bitcoin, equating to 37.84% of the global production share. Prior to the halving event witnessed in April, the electricity consumption for mining 1 Bitcoin stood at 407,059.01 kilowatt-hours, costing around $52,144.26. Post-halving, the energy consumption for mining 1 Bitcoin surged to 862,635.55 kWh, incurring a cost of approximately $110,503.61 at prevailing commercial rates.

Amidst elevated energy usage, Bitcoin mining emerges as a singular primary global sector primarily backed by renewable energy sources. The Bitcoin ESG Forecast for January reported a record 54.5% usage of sustainable energy in Bitcoin mining, marking a 3.6% increase in sustainable mining throughout 2023.

Evolving Landscape of Mining Sector

Following the prohibition on mining activities in China and the effective restriction in Kazakhstan, miners have notably transitioned towards greener energy grids in North America or sustainable off-grid locations. With a total capped supply of 21 million, approximately 19.5 million Bitcoin have been mined until now.

Environmental considerations continue to occupy a central position amidst mining sector transformations. Numerous experts voice concerns regarding the detrimental environmental impact of Bitcoin mining. Nonetheless, the adoption of renewable energy sources for mining operations remains a pivotal subject of discourse. Furthermore, a substantial number of mining devices have become outdated post the Bitcoin halving event.