Russia Bans Moscow Crypto Mining Over Energy Concerns Until 2032

Russia has taken its most aggressive step yet against domestic crypto mining by banning all cryptocurrency mining and participation in mining pools in Moscow, the surrounding Moscow Region, and parts of Kursk through December 31, 2032.

The move aims to reduce the risk of power-capacity shortages, with mining currently consuming roughly 1 gigawatt in the Moscow power system alone. According to Interfax, the region's combined data center and mining capacity could reach 3.6 GW by 2032, equivalent to 17% of peak electricity demand for the entire Moscow grid.

The ban extends a pattern seen in other regions, where year-round restrictions were imposed due to electricity demand. Russia still ranks second globally in Bitcoin hashrate, accounting for an estimated 175 exahashes per second in Q1 2026, roughly 16.4% of Bitcoin's global computing power.

The ban may redirect mining capacity rather than eliminate it, pushing operators toward regions with power surpluses instead of straining the capital's aging grid infrastructure. This move reflects a broader trend as governments worldwide become more selective about where mining happens, prioritizing grid stability over blanket permissiveness.