ISLAMABAD, Pakistan—In a bid to capitalize on its surplus electricity and drive economic innovation, Pakistan is considering large-scale Bitcoin mining and artificial intelligence (AI) data centers as part of a broader strategy to boost exports, create tech jobs, and establish itself as a hub for digital finance.
By luring cryptocurrency mining companies, the project, spearheaded by the Pakistan Crypto Council, seeks to commercialize extra energy, especially in areas with underused power capacity. The council’s head, Bilal Bin Saqib, emphasized how blockchain and artificial intelligence (AI) might turn Pakistan’s excess energy into a driving force for technological development.
From Excess Energy to Digital Prosperity
Pakistan sees a chance in Bitcoin mining to make money from otherwise lost electricity as the use of solar power grows and traditional grid infrastructure faces difficulties. According to reports, the government is negotiating with many mining firms to open operations in regions with abundant energy.
Changpeng Zhao (CZ), the creator of Binance, has joined the Pakistan Crypto Council as a strategic advisor, which will further accelerate the endeavor. His experience is anticipated to help the nation advance national projects like central bank digital currency (CBDCs), blockchain and artificial intelligence (AI) education for young people, and blockchain infrastructure development.
A Crypto-Savvy Nation Ready for Growth
Despite lacking formal cryptocurrency regulations, Pakistan ranks among the world’s top 10 crypto-adopting nations, with an estimated 15–20 million users. The country also hosts the third-largest freelance economy globally, signaling strong potential for fintech and blockchain expansion.
Saqib stressed the need for regulatory sandboxes to test crypto innovations safely while advocating for upskilling programs to prepare Pakistan’s youth for high-tech jobs. “By fostering innovation and smart regulation, we can position Pakistan as a leader in the digital economy,” he said.
As the government explores partnerships with mining firms and tech giants, the move could mark a pivotal shift in Pakistan’s approach to energy and economic growth—turning excess watts into wealth.
