Pakistan has launched a groundbreaking initiative to allocate 2,000 megawatts (MW) of surplus electricity for Bitcoin mining and AI data centers. This move, led by the Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC) under the Ministry of Finance, aims to monetize excess energy, attract foreign investment, and position Pakistan as a global tech hub.
The plan leverages underutilized power plants to fuel high-value digital assets, potentially generating foreign exchange in USD through Bitcoin mining. Officials suggest that Pakistan could accumulate Bitcoin in a national wallet, shifting from selling power in PKR to holding digital assets for long-term economic stability.
While the initiative has drawn global interest, it also raises concerns about regulatory oversight, economic risks, and energy sustainability. The IMF has expressed reservations, questioning the legality and fiscal implications of the move. Critics warn that Bitcoin’s volatility and Pakistan’s fragile energy grid could pose challenges.
Despite the risks, Pakistan sees this as a transformative step toward digital innovation, with plans to integrate renewable energy, establish fintech hubs, and offer tax incentives to attract tech giants. The success of this initiative could redefine Pakistan’s economic landscape, but careful execution will be key.