Pakistan Eyes Bitcoin Mining to Monetize Surplus Electricity

Pakistan is exploring the use of its surplus electricity for Bitcoin mining operations, aiming to convert unused power into revenue. According to reports, government officials are in discussions to establish special electricity rates for foreign Bitcoin miners to reduce wasted power costs. This initiative follows meetings between Power Minister Awais Leghari and Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC) head Bilal Bin Saqib, as well as Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, where plans to attract international Bitcoin mining operations were discussed. The PCC, established earlier this month, supports the proposal, which involves utilizing Pakistan's excess energy to power Bitcoin mining operations. The government aims to create a transparent and future-ready financial ecosystem by establishing clear policies and infrastructure for crypto mining businesses, potentially transforming energy liabilities into economic assets. However, council members have urged for a slow rollout with numerous pilot programs and the importance of a national blockchain policy that provides regulatory clarity first.