Russia Proposes Mining Ban in Moscow Amid Power Grid Concerns

Russia is proposing to ban cryptocurrency mining in Moscow and surrounding areas through 2032, citing concerns over power grid strain. The Energy Ministry published a draft decree on June 26 that would restrict digital currency mining in these regions from July 1, 2026, through December 31, 2032.

According to Interfax, the proposed ban aims to protect the capital's power system, which is also used by data centers and ordinary households. The Energy Ministry estimates that miners currently account for around 1 gigawatt of electricity consumption in Moscow's power system.

Russia legalized crypto mining in November 2024, but the government has now set a limit on unregistered individuals to 6,000 kWh per month. This move is seen as an effort to regulate the industry and ensure that miners are not competing with essential services for electricity.