ESG researcher Daniel Batten rebuts nine Bitcoin mining energy myths

ESG researcher Daniel Batten used a Saturday X thread to dispute nine common criticisms of Bitcoin mining's energy use, saying those claims are contradicted by peer-reviewed studies and grid-level data. Batten said the idea that Bitcoin is resource‑intensive per transaction is “not true,” citing four peer‑reviewed studies and research summarized in the University of Cambridge’s 2025 Digital Mining Industry Report.

He wrote, “This means that Bitcoin transaction volume can scale without increasing resource use.” He also disputed claims that mining destabilizes power grids, saying mining can stabilise grids through flexible load management, particularly on renewable‑heavy grids like Texas, and added there is no data showing everyday consumers pay more for electricity because of miners: “Neither in the data, nor in a peer‑reviewed study is there evidence to support the claim.” Batten challenged assertions of a high carbon footprint, arguing mining produces no direct emissions and only scope‑2 emissions from electricity use, and said the industry has crossed a “50% sustainable energy threshold.” He also stated that Bitcoin mining’s emissions intensity is falling.

Key Topics

Crypto, Bitcoin Mining, Daniel Batten, Gridless