Frequently Asked Questions
How much energy does Bitcoin use compared to Ethereum?
Bitcoin uses an estimated 100-150 TWh of electricity per year globally, comparable to the energy use of some mid-sized countries. Ethereum switched from Proof of Work to Proof of Stake in September 2022 (the "Merge"), reducing its energy consumption by roughly 99.95% - from about 70 TWh/year to less than 0.01 TWh/year.
Why does Proof of Work use so much more energy than Proof of Stake?
Proof of Work requires miners to solve computationally intensive puzzles to validate transactions and earn rewards. This intentional computational difficulty requires massive amounts of electricity. Proof of Stake selects validators based on the amount of cryptocurrency they "stake" as collateral, requiring minimal computation and therefore far less energy.
What is the carbon footprint of one Bitcoin transaction?
Estimates vary widely by methodology and the energy mix of the mining network, but commonly cited figures range from 400 to 900 kg CO2e per Bitcoin transaction. For comparison, a Visa credit card transaction produces about 0.001 kg CO2e. This massive difference reflects Bitcoin's Proof of Work consensus mechanism.
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This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only. Results are based on assumptions and may not reflect actual outcomes. Consult qualified professionals in relevant fields before making important decisions based on these results.