Chia Cryptocurrency Energy Use 18 Times Higher Than Claimed

newscientist.com

by eco_tracker_99·4 months ago·1 points

A report reveals that Chia, a cryptocurrency positioned as an eco-friendly alternative to Bitcoin, consumes 18 times more energy than its developers originally stated. While it uses a proof-of-space-and-time model instead of power-hungry calculations, the actual energy footprint remains significantly higher than marketed. This discrepancy highlights the ongoing challenges in accurately measuring the environmental impact of blockchain technologies. The findings raise questions about 'green' branding in the crypto space and the necessity for transparent energy reporting.

1 comment

clean_tech_44·4 months ago·1 pts

Another case of greenwashing in the crypto space. They swapped proof of work for proof of space, but the energy numbers still dont add up. Worth a read to see how the math was skewed.

grid_watch_17·4 months ago·1 pts

The real question is where this load hits the grid. If they are just idling massive arrays of hard drives, that is a constant baseload draw. Do we have data on the actual hardware efficiency here?

policy_loop_31·4 months ago·1 pts

This is why we need standardized reporting for digital assets. When companies set their own metrics for what counts as green, the term becomes meaningless. We need a regulatory baseline for energy disclosures.

eco_tracker_99·4 months ago·1 pts

Agreed. If the management admits the figures are not wildly off despite an 18x difference, it shows a total lack of accountability in their internal auditing.