Pakistan is exploring bitcoin mining and AI data centers as a way to utilize its surplus electricity, with plans to foster innovation, boost exports, and create tech jobs through crypto regulation and infrastructure support.
Pakistan Explores Allocating its Surplus Electricity to Bitcoin Mining
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Turning Watts into Wealth: Pakistan Leverages Excess Energy for Crypto Mining
Pakistan is looking to bitcoin mining and artificial intelligence (AI) data centers as a solution to its energy surplus and economic challenges, according to Bilal Bin Saqib, head of the Pakistan Crypto Council.
According to the Reuters report, the government is in talks with multiple mining firms to utilize excess electricity, particularly in regions with abundant capacity.
With solar energy adoption rising and traditional power infrastructure under strain, Pakistan sees crypto mining as a new opportunity to monetize surplus power while encouraging innovation in the digital economy.
Changpeng Zhao, founder of Binance, has joined the Pakistan Crypto Council as a strategic advisor. His role includes advising on blockchain infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, and national initiatives such as digital currency and youth education in blockchain and AI technologies.
Despite a lack of formal regulation, Pakistan ranks among the top 10 global crypto adopters, with 15–20 million users. It also boasts the third-largest freelance economy worldwide, making it ripe for fintech and blockchain innovation.
Saqib emphasized the importance of regulatory sandboxes to safely test crypto solutions and called for upskilling Pakistan’s youth to boost exports and position the country as a global tech hub.
