Starting August 15, 2026, Russia will prohibit cryptocurrency mining in Moscow, the Moscow Region, and several districts of the Kursk Region. This expansion follows existing regional bans and aims to alleviate pressure on local power grids. The government confirmed the move through Resolution No. 936, signed by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin on July 25.
The ban encompasses digital currency mining and participation in mining pools across the specified areas. In the Kursk Region, it affects eight municipal districts and the city of Lgov. This decision modifies an earlier December 2024 order that initially limited mining activity to certain territories, now broadening the scope to include these major population centers.
Energy Demand and Grid Risks
Moscow's energy authorities indicated that mining operations already consume approximately one gigawatt of power within the city’s electrical system. Officials warn that without these restrictions, the demand could lead to significant risks of power shortages. Projections suggest data-center capacity in Moscow and its vicinity might hit 3.6 gigawatts by 2032, representing roughly 17% of the region’s maximum power load. These figures shows why regulators are keen to impose long-term controls.
The ban will remain active through the end of 2032, a timespan that aligns with the government’s cautious approach to managing the energy-intensive nature of crypto mining. This policy could impact major data centers planning expansions in the area and is part of a broader trend of regional restrictions on crypto mining across Russia. For more on Russia’s stance, see the recent coverage on Moscow’s extended ban.
This content is for informational purposes and does not constitute financial advice.
