Russia is set to ban cryptocurrency mining in Moscow, the Moscow Region, and parts of Kursk Region until 2032, targeting energy consumption concerns. This crackdown puts at risk about 17.2% of the world’s Bitcoin mining power, according to Q3 2026 data from Hashrate Index.
The government cites the strain on local power grids as the primary reason behind the extended ban, effective August 15. Russia’s position as a top Bitcoin miner means these restrictions could reshape mining geography as operations seek more favorable energy conditions elsewhere.
Some of this mining capacity is expected to migrate to the US, Kazakhstan, and other Central Asia regions where regulations and power costs may be more accommodating. Meanwhile, Bitcoin’s overall network hash rate has dipped nearly 12% from its peak in December 2025, after two consecutive quarters of decline. This may offer relief for miners who remain, as Bitcoin’s mining difficulty could adjust downward.
