Article

In 2025, Bitcoin mining consumed approximately 171 TWh, making up 16% of total data center energy use. Traditional data centers worldwide consumed between 448 and 1,050 TWh, with Gartner estimating 448 TWh and the IEA suggesting over 1,000 TWh.

AI-focused facilities consumed between 82 and 536 TWh, accounting for 11-40% of data center energy usage. By 2030, total data center consumption could reach between 1,000 and 1,900 TWh. Bitcoin's renewable energy mix is 52.4%, while traditional data centers average 42%.

The competition for electricity is projected to constrain Bitcoin mining to 100-140 TWh by 2030 due to AI demand. Data center growth is expected to double by 2026, with investments in AI infrastructure reaching $400-450 billion. Bitcoin's ability to consume curtailed renewable energy may provide grid benefits but raises concerns about environmental impacts compared to traditional and AI data centers.