Catenaa, Sunday, February 09, 2025 – Irkutsk Governor Igor Kobzev has called for a permanent ban on cryptocurrency/crypto mining in the energy-strained Russian region, escalating restrictions initially imposed for the winter season.
Speaking at a Legislative Assembly meeting, Kobzev urged Moscow to extend the mining suspension through 2031, citing ongoing energy shortages.
The region, a major Bitcoin mining hub, has already freed 300 megawatts of capacity since enacting a temporary ban on January 1.
“We know there are opponents to these restrictions, but we are confident they are necessary to ensure sustainable development,” Kobzev said.
Despite his push for a broader crackdown, crypto mining operations in Northern Irkutsk remain exempt, with Kobzev directing officials to explore higher tax revenues from legal miners.
Mining has revitalized Irkutsk’s struggling economy, drawing investment due to low electricity rates and real estate costs. However, energy firms report a surge in illegal mining operations, exacerbating power shortages.
The debate has split the regional government, with concerns that forcing miners out could drive investment to other Russian regions, such as Komi Republic, which is constructing 15 new mining data centers.
Meanwhile, state-run power firm Rosseti is launching initiatives to attract miners to underutilized energy facilities elsewhere in Russia.
If Moscow supports Kobzev’s proposal, Irkutsk’s role as a top Bitcoin mining hub may soon diminish, reshaping Russia’s crypto mining landscape.
