A novel initiative is underway in Manitoba, Canada, where Bitcoin mining is being harnessed to provide supplemental heat for greenhouse operations. This project, a collaboration between Bitcoin hardware manufacturer Canaan and Bitforest Investment, seeks to leverage the significant heat generated by cryptocurrency mining to support sustainable agriculture. The pilot program aims to address both the energy-intensive nature of Bitcoin mining and the high heating demands of greenhouses in cold climates.
Canaan has launched a 3 MW proof-of-concept project with Bitforest, deploying 360 of its Avalon A1566HA-460T liquid-cooled computing servers housed in four containerized cooling modules at the greenhouse site. Under a 24-month agreement, the heat generated by these servers, which are used for Bitcoin mining, will be captured through a closed-loop heat-exchange system. This captured heat will then be used to preheat intake water for the greenhouse's electric boilers. Canaan estimates that approximately 90% of the electricity consumed by the computing servers can be transferred to the heating system.
The Manitoba greenhouse operation focuses on year-round tomato production. By utilizing the heat generated from Bitcoin mining, the greenhouse can reduce its reliance on traditional heating methods, potentially lowering energy expenses by 40-60%. This could improve profitability for local farmers and potentially lower consumer prices for fresh produce. Furthermore, the project is designed to improve overall site power efficiency while reducing environmental impact.
Nangeng Zhang, chairman and CEO of Canaan, stated that the program will allow the company to measure, model, and scale heat recovery for agriculture in colder climates. The project will also allow Canaan to evaluate key performance indicators for agricultural applications under real operating conditions, including heat recovery efficiency, system stability, and operating and maintenance intensity.
The deployment of this system eliminates the need for industrial cooling towers typically required in liquid-cooled data centers, potentially reducing capital expenditure. Canaan's liquid cooling technology enables the output of high-temperature hot water above 75°C, making the heat directly usable for greenhouse operations. The project is reported to operate with a power cost of $0.035/kWh, which includes Bitforest's power expenses and routine maintenance. Canaan will also share in economic benefits if Bitforest participates in grid demand-response programs.
This initiative represents a practical application of waste heat recovery in the cryptocurrency sector. It also provides a lower-emission alternative to fossil-fuel boilers, which are commonly used in large greenhouse facilities. Several regions, including Canada, have introduced carbon pricing to encourage the adoption of such alternatives. The success of this pilot project could pave the way for similar initiatives in other cold climates, offering a sustainable solution for both cryptocurrency mining and agriculture.
