Paraguay Launches Government-Run Bitcoin Mining Program

Paraguay's state-owned electricity monopoly, Administración Nacional de Electricidad (ANDE), has taken a significant step in the world of cryptocurrency by partnering with infrastructure firm Morphware to launch a government-run Bitcoin mining program.

The program will utilize seized mining rigs and surplus hydroelectric power from the Itaipú dam. This move is part of a growing trend among states that are using energy policy to increase their hash rate.

As part of this initiative, ANDE will host and own the mining operations, while Morphware will serve as a technical advisor. The company's role will be advisory rather than speculative, according to Morphware founder and CEO Kenso Trabing.

The pilot phase of the program is expected to plug in about 1,500 seized miners at existing utility buildings located next to substations. These facilities can be converted into basic mining facilities with ventilation, transformers, distribution units, and proper metering.