Colombia Plans Bitcoin Mining Hub with Clean Energy

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has proposed turning the Caribbean coast into a Bitcoin mining hub by using surplus renewable energy, mainly from hydropower in cities like Santa Marta, Riohacha, and Barranquilla. Colombia already generates around 75 percent of its electricity from renewables with over 21000 megawatts of capacity, creating potential excess power for mining. Supporters see job creation and revenue growth in poorer regions, while critics highlight high electricity costs and challenges from heat and infrastructure limitations for large-scale mining.