British Columbia in Canada bans coin mining using electricity from BC Hydro

British Columbia province (Canada) has just announced a plan to permanently ban new crypto mining projects connected to BC Hydro, the provincial public utility company, in order to protect the energy supply and prioritize job-creating industries.

According to the press release, the government stated that this move aims to “meet unprecedented electricity demands and ensure that Canada's economic interests are reflected in the allocation of British Columbia's growing clean power supply.”

The Energy Statutes Amendment Act has been submitted to the provincial legislature on Monday, ensuring that electricity will be allocated to sectors that create jobs and generate public revenue, such as mining, natural gas, and LNG.

Energy and Climate Solutions Minister Adrian Dix stated:

“The new allocation framework will prioritize growth in essential sectors such as mining, natural gas, and low-emission LNG, while ensuring that our clean energy is dedicated to projects that bring the greatest benefits to the people of B.C.”

Starting in the fall of 2025, British Columbia plans to implement several policy adjustments to limit electricity allocations for data centers and AI, while completely halting new electricity supply for crypto mining projects.

Previously, the province had imposed a moratorium on new crypto mining connections since 2022, and the new regulation will make this ban permanent.

Premier David Eby said:

“This law will help us accelerate the progress of the North Coast Transmission Line project — a national project that helps provide clean electricity, supports industrial growth, and creates responsible jobs.”