Ethereum blockchain to undergo major software upgrade to cut energy use

'Merge' software upgrade to take place in coming days; Google estimates Merge will happen on Thursday

A long-awaited software upgrade to the Ethereum blockchain aimed at slashing its huge energy consumption is expected this week, a move proponents say may widen the technology's use and support the price of the ether token.
 

The upgrade, known as the "Merge," will mark a radical change to how transactions on the Ethereum blockchain occur and ether tokens are created. The new system will consume 99.95% less energy, according to the Ethereum Foundation, a body which acts as a spokesperson for the network.
 

The exact timing for the Merge is unknown, but Google and other sites tracking the blockchain were