Mining ban in 10 Russian regions: enacted for $6 years due to power shortage

Russia’s government has approved a resolution enforcing a total ban on cryptocurrency mining from January 1, 2025, through March 15, 2031, in 10 regions, including several newly incorporated territories as well as the North Caucasus. Key reason: a critical shortfall of energy capacity, exacerbated by rising mining activity.

According to the Ministry of Energy, total crypto mining consumption nationwide has neared 1.5 GW, with some hotspots hitting up to 15% of local power grids, an alarming level. The ban applies to the DPR, LPR, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia regions, plus Dagestan, Ingushetia, Chechnya, Kabardino-Balkaria, Karachay-Cherkessia, and North Ossetia. Experts stress these areas face the most acute energy scarcity.

The decree also introduces partial restrictions for Irkutsk region, Buryatia, and Zabaykalsky Krai, imposing seasonal limits during peak loads (November 15–March 15), while some municipalities there face year-round curbs. Analysts estimate over 1200 MW of installed capacity may be affected. Although certain investors are displeased, officials insist this measure will stabilize the power system and safeguard industrial and residential consumers.