Baikal Daily: Miners May Relocate from Buryatia to Krasnoyarsk Due to Winter Restrictions

According to Baikal Daily, temporary mining limits will go into effect on January 1, 2025, in the Republic of Buryatia and nearby areas during peak electricity usage. This applies to Zabaykalsky Krai and the Irkutsk region as well. The restrictions are initially set to remain in place until mid-March, with the possibility of extension.

Local authorities say the measure is aimed at preventing power shortages in the cold season. The region has already witnessed network load spikes exceeding 25%. Baikal Daily experts suggest some large-scale mining operations may shift to the Krasnoyarsk region, which currently offers more stable electricity rates and less outdated infrastructure.

Observers predict a potential 10–12% hike in data center rental costs in Krasnoyarsk over the next couple of months. Moreover, these relocated mining farms might not return if Buryatia’s tariff policies fail to improve. Major operators are considering owning their own power facilities, but project costs could surpass $3 mln.