In the Irkutsk region, there has been a significant increase in electricity consumption due to the explosive growth of cryptocurrency mining. Since 2022, this figure has risen by 20%.
Growth in Electricity Consumption
Since the beginning of 2022, electricity consumption in the Irkutsk region has increased by 20% due to the growing number of mining farms. Currently, mining consumes about 1 GW of electricity per year. For comparison, the installed capacity of the Irkutsk Hydroelectric Power Plant is 760 MW.
Energy Deficit in the Southern Part of the Region
The situation in the southern part of the Irkutsk region has become particularly acute, with the region experiencing an energy deficit. The increased demand from mining farms puts pressure on the region's energy system and infrastructure.
Authorities' Opinions and Proposals
Regional authorities are concerned about the increased electricity consumption and propose that miners create their own power generation sources. In August, they appealed to the federal government to develop measures to prohibit mining in energy-deficient areas.
The Irkutsk region faces significant challenges due to the growing popularity of cryptocurrency mining. The measures proposed by regional authorities aim to reduce the load on the energy system and ensure the region's sustainable energy future.
