US Congress Explores Crypto Mining as Solution for Energy Goals & Economic Growth
The U.S. Congress is increasingly focused on the energy demands and potential benefits of cryptocurrency mining. Recent legislative proposals highlight a growing debate: can Bitcoin mining, particularly Proof-of-Work (PoW) mining, be leveraged to support U.S. energy goals and drive economic growth? This article examines the latest bills, key players, and the complex arguments surrounding this emerging issue.
A New Approach: Utilizing Wasted Natural Gas
Three United States lawmakers have introduced legislation that would direct the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to report on the energy usage and environmental impact of crypto mining. One such bill, the Facilitate Lower Atmospheric Released Emissions (FLARE) Act, announced on March 31st, seeks to harness wasted natural gas to power Bitcoin mining operations. By providing permanent full expensing for infrastructure that captures and utilizes flared gas, the bill creates strong incentives for industries, including Bitcoin mining, to participate in sustainable energy practices.
The FLARE Act: Mining for Energy Stability?
The core idea behind the FLARE Act is to turn a current environmental problem – the flaring of excess natural gas – into an opportunity. By using this gas to power crypto mining, proponents argue, we can reduce methane emissions and create a new economic driver. US Congress has introduced a bill proposing proof-of-work (PoW) Bitcoin mining as a potential aid to the US energy goals and economic growth.
Addressing Environmental Concerns: The Clean Cloud Act of 2025
However, the energy-intensive nature of crypto mining has raised concerns about its environmental impact. In the United States, Bitcoin crypto-asset mining facilities use up to 1.4% of domestic electricity – equivalent to the electricity needed to light every home in the country. Recognizing this, Two Democratic Senators, Sheldon Whitehouse and John Fetterman, have introduced the “Clean Cloud Act of 2025” to address the escalating energy emissions from crypto mining. On April 11, Senators Sheldon Whitehouse and John Fetterman have introduced the Clean Cloud Act of 2025. The bill aims to curb carbon emissions from energy-intensive crypto mining.
Debate Heats Up: Environmental Impact vs. Economic Opportunity
The introduction of these bills highlights the ongoing debate in Congress regarding the role of crypto mining in the U.S. energy landscape. Senators Ed Markey (D-Mass.) and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), as well as Rep. Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), introduced new legislation on Thursday. If passed, this bill would [impact the crypto mining industry]. A New “Model” Bill Carves Out Special Protections for Crypto Miners that Can Threaten the Grid and Raise Electricity Rates. Energy-intensive crypto mining has strained local electric grids. This proposed legislation represents a significant step in understanding and regulating the energy consumption of the growing cryptocurrency industry. Now home to over a third of the global computing power dedicated to mining bitcoin, the US Congress shines its spotlight on the energy demands of cryptocurrency mining. Moreover, Republican [support is growing for innovative solutions to address energy challenges].