Crypto Mining Ban: British Columbia to Permanently Ban New Projects

British Columbia has announced a permanent ban on new cryptocurrency mining projects, marking a significant shift in how the province manages electricity demand. The government’s decision comes as part of a broader regulatory push to prioritize clean energy use for industries that generate jobs and public revenue. This move follows an 18-month moratorium put in place in December 2022, which has now evolved into a permanent restriction.

According to the official statement, BC Hydro, the main electricity provider serving over 5 million people, will no longer approve new grid connections for crypto mining operations. This is aimed at preserving the province’s electricity supply for sectors like mining, natural gas, and liquefied natural gas (LNG), which are seen as more beneficial to the local economy. Charlotte Mitha, President and CEO of BC Hydro, highlighted the unprecedented demand from traditional and emerging industries, emphasizing the need to keep the grid reliable and energy affordable.

In addition to banning new crypto mining projects, British Columbia will introduce caps on electricity allocation for artificial intelligence (AI) facilities and data centers, alongside launching a competitive bidding process for electricity access starting January 2026.

Energy Consumption Concerns and Economic Impact

Crypto mining operations are often criticized for their intensive electricity use without corresponding local economic benefits such as meaningful job creation or tax revenue. British Columbia’s policy explicitly addresses this, steering resources toward industries that produce tangible public returns. The province’s energy statutes amendment act reinforces this focus by expediting the development of the North Coast Transmission Line, which will provide clean power to prioritized sectors, further reinforcing its economic growth strategy.

Also read: our latest piece on top DeFi trends redefining finance in 2025 for an in-depth look at the innovations shaping decentralized finance this year.

Global Context of Crypto Mining Regulations

British Columbia’s stance mirrors actions in other jurisdictions, as global regulators tackle the environmental footprint of crypto mining. For example, regions in Russia and Norway have implemented bans or moratoriums on such operations to manage electricity shortages. Southeast Asian countries are tightening controls on unauthorized activities to protect power grids and ensure sustainable development.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. Readers should perform their own research and consult professionals before making decisions related to cryptocurrency mining or investments.