Yes, I know this energy is securing the network, which is of course very important.
But shouldn't we try to find a way to minimize this energy consumption. Shouldn't we be looking for alternative methods? Maybe even something like Proof of Stake? There has to be a better way.
Or do you think that electricity consumption is not bad in itself, just the way it is made. eg. If all of bitcoin was powered by solar, it would be fine.
I think you are in the right track, instead of focusing on how much energy is consumed for mining, and creating transaction we need to focus more on the alternative ways we can generate electricity to operate the bitcoin network. The critics are really the ones targeting Bitcoin's energy consumption as an issue on why isn't it an idea currency or how can it destroy our environment yet they failed to point out that there are far more worst contributors to pollution and power consumption, they also fail to point out that the problem of Bitcoin can be solved when they shift to alternative modes on generating electricity. You shouldn't feel bad on how Bitcoin is consuming electricity because it's what the critics want you to believe and they are just messing with your head.