Why Do Cryptocurrencies Use So Much Energy?

"Critics are upset about the energy consumption of cryptocurrencies. But it’s not the energy needs of these products that is the problem. Let niche communities enjoy their strange energy-intensive activities. Rather, what is disturbing is that most consumers of cryptocurrencies don't perceive the true cost of the services they are using. And so these very, very expensive products have, by accident, gone mainstream." ~ J.P. Koning