British Columbia plans to permanently ban new cryptocurrency mining operations connecting to its electricity grid, emphasizing the protection of power supplies for job-creating industries and public revenue.
This decision by the government of Canada’s third-most populous province is part of a comprehensive regulatory overhaul announced Monday, which also sets new limits on electricity use by data centers and artificial intelligence (AI) companies.
“The government will implement several regulatory and policy changes in fall 2025 that will permanently prohibit new BC Hydro connections to the electricity grid for cryptocurrency mining to safeguard the province’s electricity supply and prevent grid overload,” stated the government in a post on its website.
The province indicated that these restrictions would help avert grid strain and ensure industrial development relies on clean electricity.
“We’re witnessing unprecedented demand from both traditional and emerging industries,” remarked Charlotte Mitha, president and CEO of power utility BC Hydro, in the web post. “The province’s strategy enables BC Hydro to manage this growth responsibly, ensuring our grid remains reliable and our energy future is clean and affordable.”
According to the statement, crypto mining operations typically consume significant amounts of electricity while generating few local jobs or tax revenues.
In contrast, projects such as mines or liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities are viewed as more advantageous for the economy.
Besides the crypto ban, the province will limit electricity availability for AI and data centers and initiate a competitive allocation process in January 2026.
Detailed regulations are expected to be released in November, with a competitive process for allocating electricity to AI and data centers slated for January 2026.
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