Pakistan plans to utilize surplus electricity to power Bitcoin mining and artificial intelligence (AI) data centers as part of a new energy and tech policy aimed at transforming excess capacity into economic opportunity.
Bilal Bin Saqib, head of Pakistan’s Crypto Council and adviser to the finance minister, announced the initiative on Wednesday, noting discussions with several mining firms.By leveraging surplus energy for digital infrastructure, officials hope to modernize the economy and enhance returns on energy investments.
This announcement follows the recent appointment of Changpeng Zhao (CZ), founder of Binance, as Pakistan’s strategic advisor on crypto currency. Saqib highlighted Pakistan’s potential for Bitcoin mining and welcomed global firms to explore opportunities, stating, “If not now, then never.”
Saqib also praised recent developments in US crypto policy under former President Donald Trump, calling him a significant catalyst for the industry. He remarked that the US is establishing crypto currencies as a national priority, urging other nations, including Pakistan, to adapt or risk being left behind.
