MTS Identifies 136,575 Mining Farms in Russia, Exceeding 11 GW in Total

According to MTS’s EnergyTool, as of January 2025, 136,575 active mining farms operate in Russia, with a combined capacity surpassing 11 GW. This marks a 7% increase over the previous year, demonstrating continued interest in cryptocurrency mining. Many of the newly identified operations are located in regions with comparatively low electricity rates.

EnergyTool employs AI and machine learning algorithms to detect unusual spikes in power consumption. The system aggregates data from smart meters, network traffic, and additional indicators that suggest the presence of mining activity. MTS notes that the top areas include the Irkutsk region, Moscow, and the Moscow region. Approximately 10% of all mining facilities are situated in Irkutsk alone.

Experts warn that this cumulative 11 GW capacity intensifies grid strain and prompts local authorities to introduce stricter regulations. Nonetheless, many miners are seeking legal avenues to avoid sudden outages. Observers predict further growth by the year’s end, assuming no significant bans are enacted.