Bitcoin mining stocks jumped sharply this week after several big companies said they will expand into artificial intelligence (AI). Many miners now plan to use their computers and power systems for AI data centers, not just for Bitcoin.

CleanSpark led the rally after announcing its move into AI. The shift shows how fast the mining industry is changing as companies look for new ways to earn money.

CleanSpark Ignites the Rally

Las Vegas–based CleanSpark saw its shares rise as much as 13% on October 21, 2025. The company said it will build and run data centers made for AI computing, in addition to mining Bitcoin.

CleanSpark also hired Jeffrey Thomas, a veteran with more than 40 years of experience, as Senior Vice President of AI Data Centers. Thomas once led Saudi Arabia’s multi-billion-dollar AI data center program. He has helped create about $12 billion in shareholder value across 19 companies.

Thomas remarked:

“CleanSpark is at a pivotal moment in its journey. Together, we have a tremendous opportunity to deliver exceptional solutions for our customers while creating long-term value for shareholders and positioning CleanSpark at the center of the AI and intelligent computing revolution.”

The company already secured land and extra power in College Park, Georgia, near Atlanta, to build its first AI sites. It is also studying more possible locations in other U.S. states.

The news came as Bitcoin prices climbed back above $110,000, recovering from earlier drops when the price fell from highs above $126,000 in early October.

• SEE MORE: Bitcoin Price Hits All-Time High Above $126K: ETFs, Market Drivers, and the Future of Digital Gold

More Miners Follow the Same Path

CleanSpark is not alone. Many mining companies are now trying to grow beyond Bitcoin. The reason is clear: mining rewards have fallen, and energy costs are rising.

After Bitcoin’s 2024 halving, rewards for miners dropped from 6.25 BTC to 3.125 BTC. This made mining less profitable, pushing companies to look for other income sources.

Companies like Marathon Digital Holdings, Riot Platforms, Canaan, Core Scientific, Bitdeer Technologies, Hut 8, Cipher Mining, and TeraWulf have all announced similar plans. Their stocks also rose:

• Marathon Digital gained 7.97% to $21.13.
• Riot Platforms jumped 11.21% to $22.28.
• Canaan, a hardware maker in China, surged about 28%.

Publicly traded Bitcoin miners raised more than $4.6 billion through loans and convertible notes in late 2024 and early 2025 to fund their AI projects.

The CoinShares Bitcoin Mining ETF, which tracks the sector, has soared 160% this year. Investors are clearly excited about the shift toward AI.

• RELATED: Top 5 Sustainable Bitcoin Mining Companies To Watch Out For

Why Miners Are Betting on AI

The move to AI computing makes sense for miners. They already own powerful hardware, data centers, and energy contracts. These can easily be used for AI instead of crypto.

AI systems need large amounts of electricity and fast processors to train and run models. Bitcoin miners already have this setup. By shifting to AI workloads, they can earn money even when Bitcoin prices are low.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), global demand for AI data centers could reach over 1,000 terawatt-hours per year by 2030 — about the same as all of Japan’s electricity use today.

The global AI infrastructure market could be worth $1.3 trillion by 2032, growing around 25% each year. That makes it one of the fastest-growing industries in the world.

For miners, the message is simple: if Bitcoin mining is less profitable, AI computing can fill the gap and create steady revenue.

From Mining Rigs to AI Powerhouses

AI computing and Bitcoin mining use similar technology. Both rely on high-performance processors to handle huge amounts of data.

Miners already operate powerful chips, cooling systems, and strong electricity connections. They can reuse all these to run AI and high-performance computing (HPC) jobs.

CleanSpark plans to build hybrid data centers — some for Bitcoin, others for AI workloads. Likewise, Core Scientific said it will set aside part of its 1.3-gigawatt capacity for AI clients. Other companies are exploring similar plans.

This model could change the industry. Instead of just mining coins, these firms could become “compute providers” — selling power and computing to AI companies, research labs, and cloud platforms.

Investors See Opportunity Beyond Bitcoin

Investors like this new direction. It means miners no longer depend only on Bitcoin’s price swings. They can earn a steady income from long-term contracts with AI firms.

The IEA says global electricity use from data centers could double by 2030, largely because of AI. The U.S. has about 40% of the world’s data center capacity, but new projects face delays due to power and permitting issues.

Bitcoin miners already have access to large power sources. This gives them an edge when building new AI sites. They can repurpose their existing energy deals for AI computing, cutting startup time and costs.

Still, experts warn that running AI data centers is not easy. It needs new software, specialized equipment, and skilled workers. It also takes longer to make a profit compared to Bitcoin mining, which can adjust quickly to market prices.

Energy Use and the ESG Equation

Energy use remains a key concern for both AI and Bitcoin mining. The Cambridge Centre for Alternative Finance estimates Bitcoin mining uses about 120 terawatt-hours of electricity each year, roughly equal to Argentina’s total use.

Mining companies are trying to improve their environmental impact. CleanSpark says it sources most of its electricity from renewable or low-carbon energy. It plans to apply the same approach to its AI expansion.

Switching to AI could also make mining more efficient. Many AI centers use advanced cooling systems and can run on renewable energy more easily than older mining farms.

This could help miners meet environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals while supporting the growth of clean digital infrastructure.

A New Era of Digital Infrastructure

The rise of AI has opened a new chapter for Bitcoin miners. What began as a niche focused on crypto now looks more like a digital infrastructure industry that powers AI, data analytics, and renewable energy systems.

If the transition succeeds, mining companies could become important players in the global computing market. They would supply power and servers for everything from AI model training to smart grid management.

For investors, this change offers both opportunity and risk. It provides exposure to two fast-growing industries — crypto and AI — but also depends on how well miners adapt.

Analysts say the key will be execution. Building AI centers takes time and money, and not all miners will succeed. But those who manage the shift well could become leaders in clean, high-tech energy and computing. They will shape the next phase of digital infrastructure — one that connects blockchain, AI, and sustainable power.

• READ MORE: Coinbase Stock (COIN) Rises as Green Crypto and Carbon Credit Tokenization Gain Momentum

The post Bitcoin Mining Stocks Hit New Highs on AI Pivot with CleanSpark Leading the Pack appeared first on Carbon Credits.

The United Nations has taken a major step in global carbon markets. A UN panel has approved the first methodology under Article 6.4 of the Paris Agreement. This marks the start of a new era in international carbon trading. The system will help countries and companies offset emissions under one global standard.

A New Chapter for Global Carbon Markets

Article 6.4, also known as the Paris Agreement Crediting Mechanism (PACM), aims to build a global market where countries can trade verified emission reductions. It replaces the old Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) from the Kyoto Protocol, which registered more than 7,800 projects between 2006 and 2020. This new system makes sure carbon credits come from real and measurable emission cuts.

The UNFCCC Supervisory Body met in mid-October 2025 to review new market methods. Their approval of the first one marks a major step for climate finance projects around the world.

The first approved method supports renewable energy projects, especially small wind and solar developments in developing countries. These projects are key to reducing emissions and expanding access to clean energy.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) says renewable energy in developing economies must triple by 2030 to reach global net-zero goals.

What Article 6.4 Means

Article 6.4 is part of the Paris Agreement’s cooperation plan. It lets one country fund emission reduction projects in another country and count those reductions toward its own climate goals. The system aims to:

• Stop double-counting of emission reductions.
• Improve transparency through strict monitoring.
• Build trust between developing and developed nations. 

This system will help countries meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) faster. The World Bank estimates that NDC cooperation could cut up to 5 billion tonnes of emissions annually by 2030. It could also unlock around $250 billion in climate finance each year, giving investors a clear way to support credible carbon projects.

At COP29 in Baku, world governments agreed on a new global climate finance goal for after 2025. They pledged to scale up funding for developing countries to at least $1.3 trillion per year by 2035 from public and private sources.

Developed nations will lead by mobilizing $300 billion annually, expanding on the earlier $100 billion target. The agreement allows developing countries to count their own contributions voluntarily. It also includes all multilateral development bank (MDB) climate finance. This aligns with expert estimates that developing nations need $3.1–3.5 trillion yearly by 2035 to meet climate investment and adaptation goals.

From Rules to Real Markets

Until now, discussions around Article 6.4 have focused mainly on rules and design. The panel’s decision moves the system from theory to action. It shows that global carbon trading is ready to begin.

Experts predict global demand for carbon credits could reach 2 billion tonnes by 2030, and as high as 13 billion tonnes by 2050. The UN wants to make sure only verified, high-quality credits enter this fast-growing market.

Developing nations stand to benefit the most. Many have strong potential for renewable energy, reforestation, and methane reduction projects. Africa alone could supply up to 30% of the world’s high-quality carbon credits by 2030. These projects could create billions in new revenue for clean growth.

The new methodology allows these projects to earn credits that can be sold internationally, helping communities build clean energy and adapt to climate change.

Ensuring Integrity and Transparency

Old carbon markets faced criticism for weak integrity and unclear reporting. Article 6.4 aims to fix that. Every project must pass strict checks by independent auditors before earning credits. Credits will only be issued if real emission cuts are proven.

The Supervisory Body’s framework includes steps for:

• Setting clear baselines for emissions.
• Measuring reductions over time.
• Monitoring performance using standard tools.

This process will help rebuild trust and attract new investors. Each credit will have a digital record, allowing buyers to trace where it came from and what impact it had.

Countries and companies with net-zero targets will finally have a credible tool to meet their goals. Over 160 nations now have net-zero pledges. Around 60% of global companies already use or plan to use carbon credits to reach their climate goals.

• SEE MORE: High-Quality Carbon Credit Prices Hit Record Levels, Driven by Integrity and Market Shifts

How Business and Finance Are Responding

The approval of the first methodology will draw major interest from the energy and finance sectors. Many firms have been waiting for a reliable, UN-backed system.

The voluntary carbon market was worth about $2 billion in 2023, according to McKinsey. It could grow to more than $100 billion by 2030 as Article 6.4 trading begins. The new system will also pressure companies to buy only verified and transparent credits, cutting down on “greenwashing.”

Regional exchanges and carbon registries are preparing to include Article 6.4 credits once the market launches. Exchanges in Asia, Europe, and Latin America are already aligning with UN rules. This will help stabilize global carbon prices, which currently range from under $5 per tonne in voluntary markets to more than $90 per tonne in the EU system.

More stable prices could encourage long-term investments in clean energy and climate projects. Experts expect Article 6.4 credits to trade at a premium once investors recognize their higher quality.

ESG and Environmental Impact

The new UN system supports Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals worldwide. Companies that buy Article 6.4 credits can cut their carbon footprint while funding sustainable projects in vulnerable regions.

Renewable energy projects such as solar and wind farms in Africa and Asia create jobs, cleaner air, and better access to power. The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) reports that renewable energy jobs reached 13.7 million in 2024, with strong growth expected in developing countries. These social benefits align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for clean energy and climate action.

With stronger oversight, the UN aims to stop misuse and deliver real results. As carbon markets expand, credit integrity will define success. A 2024 study found that up to 40% of older offset credits lacked verifiable emission savings. Article 6.4 aims to close that gap.

• READ MORE: Study Finds Carbon Offsets Failing to Deliver Real Climate Impact

Toward a Fair, Transparent, and Unified Carbon Future

Challenges remain before the new system reaches full scale. The next step is to approve more methods for areas like forestry, agriculture, and industry. These sectors are complex and need careful rules to avoid overstating emission cuts.

Negotiations between countries will also continue. Some worry that carbon trading may let others delay domestic cuts. Others believe it will open new funding for clean energy and climate adaptation.

The UN says developing countries will need about $4.3 trillion each year by 2030 to meet climate and energy goals. Article 6.4 could help fill that funding gap.

The Supervisory Body will meet again before COP30 in Belém, Brazil, where it may approve more methodologies. Governments and investors are watching closely as the system expands.

The UN system promises a fair and transparent market for everyone. As carbon prices become more consistent, the focus will shift to ensuring projects deliver real benefits for people and the planet.

• FURTHER READING: Carbon Credits Supply to Skyrocket 35x by 2050 – But at What Price?

The post UN Endorses First Article 6.4 Carbon Credit Methodology, Unlocking Billions for Global Carbon Markets appeared first on Carbon Credits.

Alphabet’s, Google’s parent company, self-driving car division, Waymo, has announced plans to launch its autonomous ride-hailing service in London in 2026. This marks the company’s first expansion into Europe and a major milestone for the global robotaxi industry.

The service will use all-electric Jaguar I-Pace vehicles equipped with Waymo’s self-driving technology. Public road testing will begin in the coming weeks, with human safety drivers behind the wheel. Pending regulatory approval, commercial operations are expected to begin next year.

A Major Step in Autonomous Mobility

Waymo’s move into London shows its growing trust in the safety and reliability of self-driving cars. The company has driven over 20 million miles fully autonomously. This includes public roads in cities like Phoenix, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.

In the U.S., Waymo currently provides more than 250,000 paid rides each week across five major cities. These services run on their own. They use artificial intelligence, sensors, and detailed maps.

The company is launching its driverless ride-hailing model in London. This city has one of the most complex traffic systems in the world. London’s narrow streets and busy pedestrian areas make it great for testing self-driving cars. Its unpredictable weather adds to the challenge.

UK Opens Fast Lane for Driverless Innovation

Waymo’s announcement follows the UK government’s push to fast-track autonomous vehicle deployment. In June 2025, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander confirmed that pilot programs for robotaxis would start in spring 2026. This is a year earlier than planned.

This move matches the Automated Vehicles Act of 2024. This law says self-driving cars must meet or beat human safety standards. Full implementation of the law is expected by 2027, but early pilots will allow companies like Waymo to start operations sooner.

The UK government thinks the autonomous vehicle sector could bring 38,000 new jobs and add £42 billion to the economy by 2035. London, Manchester, and Birmingham are expected to be early hubs for testing and commercial deployment.

Alexander stated that the government wants the UK to be “a global leader in self-driving technology.” This will help improve accessibility, cut emissions, and draw in private investment.

Growing Competition in London’s Ride-Hailing Market

Waymo will not enter London’s market alone. In June, Uber teamed up with Wayve, a British AI startup supported by Microsoft and Nvidia. They plan to launch their own self-driving taxi service in the capital.

Wayve’s vehicles are already testing in central London, where traffic conditions are among the most challenging in the world. Wayve CEO Alex Kendall remarked:

“If you prove this technology works here, you can literally drive anywhere. It’s one of the hardest proving grounds.”

For its UK operations, Waymo will partner with Moove, the fleet management company it already works with in Phoenix and Miami. Moove will handle charging infrastructure, vehicle maintenance, and fleet operations in London.

This partnership supports Waymo’s plan to expand its global footprint. In addition to London, the company is testing robotaxis in Tokyo, where it began trials in April 2025.

• SEE MORE: Waymo Expands With Lyft Robotaxi Deal and Strong Safety Record

A Trillion-Dollar Mobility Revolution

The global autonomous vehicle (AV) market is expanding rapidly. Research says the global AV industry is worth around $207 billion in 2024. It’s expected to grow to $4,450 billion by 2034.

Europe alone could see over 30 million autonomous vehicles on the road by 2040, with cities like London, Paris, and Berlin leading adoption. The UK government expects 40% of new vehicles sold domestically to have self-driving features by 2035.

Robotaxi services like Waymo’s are part of a broader shift toward shared, electric, and autonomous mobility (SEAM). Analysts say the global robotaxi market might top $45 billion by 2030. This growth is due to lower operating costs, high demand for ride-sharing, and better vehicle sensors and AI.

Waymo’s parent, Alphabet, views robotaxis as a long-term bet on mobility services. They could one day compete with traditional ride-hailing.

Driving Toward Net-Zero: Waymo’s Green Advantage

Waymo’s all-electric Jaguar I-Pace vehicles help the UK reach its net-zero target by 2050. They also support Alphabet’s sustainability goals. The company gets its energy for vehicle charging from renewable sources when it can. It also designs its operations to reduce carbon emissions.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) says that changing from gasoline cars to electric self-driving vehicles can cut lifecycle emissions by up to 50%. This is true when they use clean energy.

Studies show electric robotaxis emit up to 94% less greenhouse gases than gasoline cars. If 5% of U.S. vehicle sales by 2030 were autonomous EVs, they could save 7 million barrels of oil and cut about 2.4 million metric tons of CO₂ each year.

In London, transportation adds about 25% to local CO₂ emissions. This change could significantly improve air quality. Self-driving fleets can also reduce traffic jams and boost energy efficiency. They do this by optimizing routes and cutting down idle time.

Waymo’s partnership model boosts sustainable infrastructure. It focuses on installing fast-charging hubs and upgrading urban energy grids for clean transport.

Speed Bumps Before the Finish Line

Despite the progress, challenges remain. London’s streets are dense, unpredictable, and filled with both old infrastructure and new regulations. Public trust in autonomous vehicles is still growing. Recent surveys show that over 60% of UK residents are cautious about self-driving cars.

Waymo will need to prove that its vehicles can operate safely and reliably under the UK’s strict rules. The company’s technology must meet or exceed safety standards set by the government. It also needs approval from the Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) before starting commercial operations.

Additionally, high costs remain a concern. Developing autonomous systems requires billions in investment, and profitability may take years. Analysts think early entrants like Waymo will gain from strong brand recognition and good regulatory ties as markets grow.

A Turning Point for Urban Mobility

Waymo’s London launch represents a defining moment for both the company and the autonomous vehicle industry. It shows how self-driving technology is maturing. Major cities are now ready to test large-scale deployment.

If successful, the London project could become a blueprint for future robotaxi services across Europe. It would show how autonomous mobility can help reduce emissions, improve transport access, and support economic growth.

Waymo’s action boosts the UK’s goal to lead in clean, AI-driven mobility. It balances innovation, safety, and sustainability.

As the world moves toward smarter, greener transportation, London’s roads could soon be home to the next generation of driverless vehicles—quiet, electric, and guided entirely by artificial intelligence.

• READ MORE: Waymo’s Sixth-Gen Robotaxis Outperform Uber Drivers and Expand into Philadelphia

The post Waymo Eyes London Launch in 2026 as Alphabet’s Q3 Momentum Boosts Global Robotaxi Race appeared first on Carbon Credits.