How Daniel Roberts Helped Build IREN From Bitcoin Mining to AI Infrastructure

Daniel Roberts helped build IREN, a company that began with renewable-powered Bitcoin Mining and later expanded into artificial intelligence infrastructure and data-centre services. As a co-founder of IREN, formerly Iris Energy, he and his brother William Roberts developed an Australian-founded Business that expanded into international markets and listed on Nasdaq. The company’s development reflects a shift from cryptocurrency-focused infrastructure towards broader computing applications.

An Australian start with a clear idea

IREN was established in 2018 in Sydney by brothers Daniel and William Roberts. The company was founded around the idea of using renewable energy to support Bitcoin mining operations.

The founders focused on developing data-centre infrastructure supported by renewable power, combining digital asset operations with energy infrastructure.

Building large-scale data centres requires expertise across energy management, technology infrastructure and Capital deployment. IREN developed its operations around these areas as it expanded its business.

Building at scale

The company developed renewable-powered data-centre operations across multiple locations, including sites in North America. Its Bitcoin mining strategy focused on operating infrastructure and selling mined Bitcoin rather than holding the Cryptocurrency as a long-term asset.