The Energy Information Administration (EIA) is considering surveying crypto mining companies again before the end of the year. In a recent webinar on July 10, the agency discussed the possibility of restarting the survey in the current quarter. However, there are currently no ongoing attempts to conduct the survey according to the Federal Registrar.
The EIA is seeking feedback from the public and industry on the types of information future surveys could collect, the value of existing data, and how to design future surveys. One of the challenges the agency faces is distinguishing mining operations from other energy consumers, especially since mining companies can relocate to areas with cheaper energy costs.
During the webinar, alternative approaches to the survey were suggested by industry attendees. Texas Blockchain Council founder Lee Bratcher proposed including data centers in general in the surveys instead of solely focusing on crypto miners. Marathon Digital’s SVP of Government Affairs, Jayson Browder, also shared similar concerns. Additionally, Margot Paez of the Bitcoin Policy Institute recommended that the EIA collaborate with the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, which is researching AI and data center energy consumption.
The EIA’s initial attempt to survey miners earlier this year was met with controversy, leading to a lawsuit filed by the Texas Blockchain Council and Riot Platforms. The lawsuit argued that the EIA should have conducted a public comment period before seeking approval from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) or prove public harm to gain emergency approval. The survey was paused in February, and the lawsuit was settled in March with the EIA agreeing to destroy or sequester any collected information.
Moving forward, the EIA is looking to improve its surveying methods and gather valuable data from crypto mining companies. By considering feedback from industry experts and exploring alternative approaches, the agency aims to conduct a successful survey that provides useful insights into the energy consumption of mining operations. The collaboration with research institutions like the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory could also enhance the accuracy and efficiency of future surveys.