NSW Brewery Earns $2,000 Monthly from Solar-Powered Bitcoin Mining

Hawkesbury Brewing Co in Lisarow, Central Coast, NSW, redirects surplus rooftop solar power into Bitcoin mining, earning approximately $2,000 each month while supplying heat for brewing operations. The brewery installed 16 mining computers that operate only when solar panels generate more electricity than required, running without additional operating costs. The initiative was pursued because exporting surplus solar electricity to the grid was not financially attractive, and battery storage was ruled out due to insurance concerns linked to storing electricity near alcohol. The operation relies entirely on solar power and produces no carbon footprint, contrasting with cryptocurrency mining banned in some regions for high energy use.

Heat Recovery System Converts Mining Output into Brewing Resource

The brewery captures heat produced by the mining computers using miners immersed in a non-conductive liquid. As the liquid warms to about 90 degrees, a heat exchanger transfers that energy into the brewery's water system, providing hot water for brewing and bottle washing. This approach prevents the heat from going to waste.

Monthly Beer Production Supported by Recycled Heat

The recycled heat supports production of approximately 100,000 litres of beer every month. The system allows the brewery to reduce overall energy costs by reusing thermal energy generated during the mining process.

Potential Applications Beyond Brewing Operations

The brewery believes the same approach could be applied to facilities such as swimming pools, apartment buildings, and manufacturing sites that require significant hot water. The technology is seen as viable anywhere large volumes of hot water are needed.

FAQ

How much does Hawkesbury Brewing Co earn from Bitcoin mining each month?

The brewery earns approximately $2,000 each month from Bitcoin mining using surplus solar power, which nearly offsets the site's power bills.

How does the brewery reuse heat from Bitcoin mining equipment?

The mining computers are immersed in a non-conductive liquid that warms to about 90 degrees. A heat exchanger transfers that energy into the brewery's water system, providing hot water for brewing and bottle washing.