CENTRAL MAINE • February 26, 2026
A Feb. 2 op-ed, arguing that crypto mining could support Maine’s aging energy grid, overlooks realities. Bitcoin mines operate like energy-intensive data centers, with continuous demand and lasting community impacts. The proposal to offer cryptominers electricity at 4 to 6 cents per kilowatt-hour raises fairness concerns. Maine households pay about 24 cents per kilowatt-hour, well above the national average. Nationwide, proof-of-work crypto mining accounts for up to 2.3% of total electricity consumption and could add over $1 billion annually to ratepayer bills. Most of the so-called “stranded energy” it relies on comes from fossil fuels, generating significant carbon pollution as well as noise pollution. Energy policy should serve communities, not ask them to absorb the costs of unchecked industries. ~ Jane Brekke, South Berwick