British Columbia is taking decisive action to safeguard its clean energy resources, announcing plans for a permanent ban on new cryptocurrency mining projects from connecting to the provincial power grid. The move, outlined in a new Energy Statutes Amendment Act introduced to the legislature this week, aims to preserve electricity for industries that generate long-term economic and social benefits.
The province, Canada’s third most populous, has been grappling with how to balance growing energy demand against its commitment to sustainability. Officials say the new legislation will ensure British Columbia’s power — derived largely from hydroelectric sources — is used to support sectors that create jobs, drive innovation, and produce public revenue.
“These actions will address unprecedented demand for electricity and ensure that B.C. and Canadian economic interests are reflected in the allocation of British Columbia’s growing clean-electricity supply,” the government said in a statement.
Energy Minister Adrian Dix emphasized that the updated allocation framework will prioritize industries such as natural gas, low-emission LNG, and responsible mining, while steering clean power toward projects that offer tangible benefits to residents. Starting in fall 2025, the province also plans to implement new policies limiting power access for data centers and artificial intelligence operations — with a full prohibition on new crypto mining power connections to BC Hydro, the province’s publicly owned utility.
British Columbia first imposed a moratorium on new crypto mining connections in 2022, citing concerns about high electricity consumption and limited economic returns. That temporary pause now appears poised to become permanent.
Premier David Eby said the legislation will help accelerate key infrastructure efforts, including the North Coast Transmission Line, a major project designed to deliver clean electricity to support sustainable industrial expansion.
The provincial government also noted that similar energy surges in other regions have led to significant rate increases for consumers — a risk B.C. is determined to avoid by managing power allocation more strategically.
With this move, British Columbia joins a growing list of jurisdictions seeking to balance the promise of digital innovation with the realities of energy conservation. The decision reflects a broader shift toward prioritizing sustainability and long-term economic resilience over short-term speculative industries.
