BITCOIN MINING VS AI DATA CENTERS – THE NEXT DECADE OF ENERGY WARS
Bitcoin miners are now competing head-to-head with AI data centers for cheap, sustainable energy — and AI giants are starting to outbid them. According to GoMining Institutional, this power struggle could ignite a fresh wave of institutional investment in mining over the next 5–10 years.
Unlike AI facilities, miners can tap off-grid energy sources, giving them a unique edge. With spot BTC ETFs already attracting billions, institutions are eyeing mining to secure cheaper “virgin” Bitcoin directly at source — often below market price.
Mining costs averaged $64K per BTC in Q1 2025 and may top $70K by year-end, still far below the $119K+ spot price. Some firms, like Riot Platforms and Iris Energy, are exploring AI opportunities, but others are doubling down. Block Inc.’s new mining system promises longer rig life and lower costs — a potential game changer.
As institutional capital rotates back toward mining, the next Bitcoin boom might not just be on the charts — it could be in the power plants.