A new report from Cambridge University reveals a dramatic shift in the energy landscape of Bitcoin mining — and it might change how the world views BTC.
🔋 52% of Mining Now Uses Renewable Energy
Bitcoin mining, once infamous for its environmental cost, is undergoing a quiet revolution. According to the Cambridge Centre for Alternative Finance (CCAF), 52.4% of the energy powering the Bitcoin network now comes from renewable and low-emission sources, including hydro, wind, solar, and even flared landfill methane.
That’s a jump from 37% in 2022, and it’s already having an impact on net emissions, which have stabilized despite a growing hash rate and energy demand.
⚡️ Cleaner, Smarter, More Efficient
Bitcoin miners aren’t just switching to greener energy — they’re also using more efficient machines. Mining hardware energy efficiency improved by 24% year-over-year, with projections suggesting even greater gains by the end of 2025.
Natural gas has overtaken coal as the largest single energy source for mining, and emission intensity per kilowatt-hour has dropped sharply, making BTC less carbon-intensive than many legacy systems.
🏭 TradFi vs. Bitcoin: A Fair Comparison?
Critics often cite Bitcoin’s energy use, but the Cambridge report argues for a more balanced view. Compared to the 4,981 TWh consumed annually by traditional banking and the 265 TWh used in gold mining, Bitcoin’s 138 TWh footprint (0.5% of global electricity) appears far more modest — especially with its growing shift toward renewables.
♻️ Mining Hardware Is Recyclable
87% of mining machines due for replacement can be repurposed or recycled, minimizing e-waste. Only 2.3 kilotonnes of actual e-waste were reported — significantly lower than other tech industries.
🧠 Trading Insight: Bitcoin’s improving sustainability profile could renew institutional interest — especially if ESG pressure eases. Long-term holders may view this as a signal that BTC is evolving into a more globally acceptable asset class.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice.
