Summary
Norwegian lawmakers have passed a law requiring data centers to report on energy use for crypto mining operations. The government aims to regulate the industry to prioritize socially useful services, excluding crypto mining. Critics argue that the claims made against mining are not backed by data, and that Bitcoin mining uses sustainable energy sources. The new law has sparked backlash from industry experts.
Key Points
1. Norwegian lawmakers have passed a law requiring data reporting from data centers to regulate energy use for crypto mining operations, particularly focusing on Bitcoin mining.
2. The government aims to restrict crypto mining in Norway by implementing regulations that require data centers to register, disclose ownership details, and explain services offered, directing energy consumption towards socially beneficial services instead.
3. Despite claims from Norwegian officials that Bitcoin mining is associated with large greenhouse gas emissions, industry experts argue that Bitcoin mining has a high sustainable energy usage and that the ability for the state to selectively restrict energy use is discriminatory.