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Is $0.07/k wh competitive for small scale mining?

Exploring Mining Profitability | $0.07/kWh Debate Sparks Interest in S19K Pro Setup

By

Samuel Brooks

Jul 5, 2025, 05:40 PM

Edited By

Aisha Khatun

3 minutes reading time

A small-scale mining operation featuring multiple S19K Pro mining units and electrical setup, with charts and data on profitability visible.
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In a recent inquiry on mining forums, new entrants are questioning whether an electricity rate of $0.07 per kilowatt-hour can yield profitability with Bitcoin mining. This discussion, featuring insights from seasoned miners, centers around the potential viability of launching a small-scale operation using 10 S19K Pro units amidst current network challenges.

The Context: Electric Pricing and Mining Viability

A pair of hopeful miners have access to volumetric pricing, meaning they only pay for the electricity consumed without any fixed costs. They plan to operate with a combined hash rate of 1.2 PH/s, but are unsure if their electric rate is competitive given rising network difficulty and fluctuating Bitcoin prices.

"Is $0.07 still competitive?" one participant inquired, highlighting concerns over the increasing competition among miners. The feedback from the community indicates that while that rate appears reasonable, factors such as efficiency and current market conditions are critical.

Key Concerns for Beginners

Three recurring themes emerged from the discussion:

  • Electric Capacity: Several contributors emphasized the importance of ensuring sufficient electrical capacity for mining rigs. Some users raised questions about the 30 kW requirement and whether the electricity provider could upgrade the service.

  • Mining Difficulty: With the growing network difficulty, forums shared skepticism about the profitability of older machines like the S19K Pro, particularly at comparable electricity costs.

  • Common Pitfalls: New operators were warned about typical issues that can derail early ventures, such as equipment inefficiencies and unforeseen operational costs.

According to one comment, "Bitcoin mining isnโ€™t for beginners,โ€ which emphasizes the need for thorough research and planning.

Insights from Seasoned Miners

Experienced voices advised utilizing mining profitability calculators before making investments. "Know your numbers before diving in,โ€ one expert recommended, affirming that profitability hinges not just on electricity costs, but also on miner efficiency and Bitcoin market trends.

"More important than profit is planning for all operational costs, including potential upgrades,โ€ stated another contributor.

Key Takeaways

  • ๐Ÿšจ Users raised concerns over electric line capacity before startup.

  • ๐Ÿ’ก $0.07/kWh evaluated as competitive, yet the impact of network difficulty is critical.

  • โš ๏ธ Beginners were cautioned about potential challenges and advised to plan meticulously.

The conversation remains active, indicating a keen interest in mining despite warning signs. As Bitcoin prices fluctuate and competition intensifies, novice miners will need to adapt strategies to remain profitable.

Future Trends in Mining Profitability

With rising competition and electric rates holding steady at $0.07/kWh, thereโ€™s a strong chance that miners will see an uptick in operational costs over the next few months. Experts estimate around a 25% probability that new entrants might abandon their plans if profitability continues to dwindle due to higher mining difficulty and stagnant Bitcoin prices. However, those who optimize their equipment and adapt to market whims could still potentially turn a profit. It seems the next few quarters will be crucial for these miners as they make strategic adjustments based on the evolving landscape of the Bitcoin market.

Shadows from the Past: Lessons from the Gold Rush

To draw an unforeseen parallel, think of the California Gold Rush in the 1800s. Many hopeful prospectors flocked westward, driven by the siren call of riches. Yet, just like today's miners, the majority faced harsh realities that led to unexpected outcomes. A small fraction struck gold and prospered while the rest confronted failures due to unforeseen costs and dwindling returns. Just as those early miners had to pivot their methods or stake their claims wisely, todayโ€™s Bitcoin enthusiasts must similarly navigate a complex and often unforgiving terrain in their quest for success.