Digital Power Network Urges DOI to Embrace Bitcoin Mining, Modernize Energy Permitting on Federal Lands
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Digital Power Network (DPN), the nation’s leading coalition of Bitcoin miners and digital infrastructure developers, today submitted formal recommendations to the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) as part of its Regulatory Reform Request for Information (RFI), calling for a modernized permitting framework that embraces digital infrastructure, streamlines project approvals, and unleashes American energy innovation.
The filing responds directly to President Trump’s Executive Order 14154 on “Unleashing American Energy” and Executive Order 14219 directing agencies to eliminate unnecessary regulatory barriers. DPN’s recommendations urge DOI to recognize Bitcoin mining and other flexible load technologies as legitimate, beneficial uses of federal lands and to accelerate infrastructure deployment through permitting reform.
“Bitcoin miners are building energy infrastructure, cutting methane emissions, and delivering flexible grid support, all without asking for subsidies,” said Hailey Miller, Director of Government Relations and Public Policy at DPN. “But outdated DOI policies continue to treat these projects like regulatory outsiders. It’s time to bring energy policy into the 21st century.”
DPN’s recommendations focus on three key reform areas:
1. Recognizing Bitcoin Mining as a Beneficial Use
DPN urged DOI to update its internal guidance and regulations to explicitly recognize Bitcoin mining data centers, especially those co-located with energy generation, as a “beneficial use” of federal lands. These projects reduce waste, improve grid reliability, and generate rural economic growth. The group cited real-world examples where miners are capturing stranded gas, stabilizing renewable energy projects, and avoiding emissions by offsetting flaring.
2. Expanding FAST-41 Eligibility for Digital Infrastructure
DPN called for large-scale Bitcoin mining and blockchain data centers to be included in the FAST-41 permitting framework, which is designed to streamline reviews for critical infrastructure projects. Including these facilities, particularly those tied to energy projects, would provide legal certainty, reduce delays, and align with federal priorities on AI, energy reliability, and digital competitiveness.
3. Prioritizing Brownfield Redevelopment and Rights-of-Way
To reduce environmental impact and regulatory red tape, DPN recommended expedited approvals for projects sited on brownfields or previously disturbed lands. These areas offer ideal conditions for digital infrastructure buildout with minimal ecological disruption. The proposal also includes liability protections and new permitting pathways to unlock investment in neglected industrial sites.
The filing includes detailed case studies, legal authorities, and implementation suggestions across DOI’s bureaus, including the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), and the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE).
Read DPN’s full submission to the Department of the Interior here.
About the Digital Power Network
The Digital Power Network (DPN) is the largest coalition of Bitcoin miners and digital infrastructure leaders in the United States, representing over 75% of the domestic Bitcoin hash rate. DPN advocates for policies that promote energy innovation, grid resilience, economic development, and the strategic role of digital assets in the 21st-century economy.