Russia Slams Brakes on Bitcoin Mining in Moscow Region

Russia has imposed a ban on Bitcoin mining in the Moscow region through 2032 due to concerns over grid strain and power shortages. The decree, which takes effect August 15, affects Moscow, Moscow Oblast, and parts of Kursk Oblast.

The ban is part of Russia's efforts to regulate the crypto mining industry, which has been growing rapidly in recent years. According to estimates, crypto mining accounts for roughly one gigawatt (GW) of power consumption on the city's grid.

This move reflects a broader trend of regional restrictions being applied alongside a national framework. The decree formalizes a proposal made by Russia's Energy Ministry in late June, which warned that unregulated mining activity could lead to electricity shortages.