>The amount of energy being wasted (reportedly more than seven nuclear power plants worth) on what is essentially an unproductive project is quite absurd.

As opposed to the energy and pollution generated by digging up yellow rocks or shiny crystals? What about billionares flying around the world in private jets or cruising in their yachts?

Moreover, if carbon emissions are the issue, why not tax it directly (aka carbon tax), rather than indirectly via a "sin" tax? That would have the effect of incentivizing the reduction of carbon emissions economy wide, rather than in a tiny sector.