Rusal Launches Crypto Mining Projects in Siberia

Russian aluminum producer Rusal begins deploying mining farms in Siberia using idle industrial infrastructure. The company plans to reach up to 135 MW capacity across sites in Krasnoyarsk, Khakassia, and Irkutsk.

Data center projects reveal crypto mining ambitions

Rusal has officially announced the launch of data center construction projects at its plants in Siberia. Sites include facilities in Krasnoyarsk Krai, the Republic of Khakassia, and Irkutsk Oblast. According to the company, these data centers will offer equipment hosting services on market terms, using free production capacity.

However, industry experts interviewed by Kommersant believe the real goal is the creation of cryptocurrency mining farms. These facilities would operate on Rusal’s unused energy and space resources.

Mining containers already deployed in Khakassia

Rusal Management, a subsidiary of Rusal, has procured 32 mining containers with a combined capacity of 35 MW for its Khakassia site. These containers use simple air ventilation cooling systems, unlike full-fledged data centers, which require extensive engineering support for stability and redundancy.

Analysts from GreenMDC and DataDom confirm that building a proper 100 MW data center with 80 containers within months is unlikely. However, setting up basic mining infrastructure is feasible. On the Taishet Aluminum Plant site, similar preparations are underway, including ventilation and fire safety systems.

Rusal could earn up to ₽2.7 billion annually from mining

If fully implemented, the mining projects could deliver Rusal up to ₽2.7 billion in annual revenue at 135 MW of capacity. This model focuses on infrastructure leasing rather than crypto trading, offering more stable income.

IPM Consulting estimates the investment could reach ₽20 billion. Experts at Finam note that Rusal’s access to cheap electricity gives it a strong advantage in the mining sector, ensuring profitability regardless of market volatility.