Catenaa, Wednesday, July 09, 2025-The Russian Energy Ministry has initiated the creation of a national registry of cryptocurrency mining rigs to crack down on illegal mining and increase tax revenues, according to a report by RIA Novosti.
The registry, developed in coordination with the Federal Tax Service and the Ministry of Digital Development, aims to serve as a central database containing detailed information about all crypto mining equipment operating within Russia.
Deputy Energy Minister Petr Konyushenko said the plan, now shared with regions heavy in mining activity, will enable authorities to precisely identify electricity users engaged in mining.
“This is a step toward legalizing the industry and reducing illegal energy consumption,” Konyushenko told RIA Novosti. The registry will require miners to submit serial numbers, device models, and other relevant equipment details.
While legal crypto mining is growing in Russia, illegal operations remain widespread, often relying on illicit electricity connections or subsidized power intended for households. Authorities are targeting these unlawful activities, recently shutting down a large illegal farm in Sayansk with 240 rigs, and seizing rigs in St. Petersburg.
The plan has drawn criticism. Lawmaker Anton Gorelkin, a key figure in Russia’s crypto mining legislation, questioned the registry’s effectiveness against illegal mining and advocated for an “amnesty” program to help miners legalize rigs acquired through sanction-evading channels.
Officials including customs are reportedly considering measures to formalize black-market equipment swiftly. The registry is part of broader efforts to regulate and tax Russia’s expanding crypto mining industry.
