[h=1]Bitcoin mining 'is using so much energy that it is causing electricity blackouts' amid fears it will consume more power than the world by 2020[/h]
- Experts say Bitcoin mining is consuming more power than used by 159 countries
- The hardware uses approximately 31 terrawatt hours of energy per year
- That compares with 23TWh in Ireland and 309TWh for the whole of the UK
- It is creating a 'colossal' carbon footprint as the value of one coin surges to more than £12,000 amid violent swings in the cryptocurrency market