British Columbia has announced plans to impose a permanent ban on the establishment of new cryptocurrency mining operations that connect to its electricity grid. This decision aims to safeguard power supplies for vital industries that contribute to job creation and public revenue.
The initiative, released by the government of Canada’s third-largest province, is part of a larger regulatory reform disclosed on Monday, which also sets new restrictions on electricity usage by data centers and artificial intelligence (AI) firms.
“The government will introduce policy changes in fall 2025 that will … permanently prohibit new BC Hydro connections to the electricity grid for cryptocurrency mining, aiming to protect the province’s electricity supply and prevent excessive strain on the grid,” stated the government in a post on its website.
The province believes that these limitations will help mitigate grid stress and ensure that industrial growth relies on clean electricity.
“We are witnessing unprecedented demand from both traditional and emerging sectors,” remarked Charlotte Mitha, the CEO of BC Hydro, in the web announcement. “The province’s strategy enables BC Hydro to handle this growth responsibly, ensuring our grid remains reliable and our energy future sustainable and affordable.”
According to the statement, cryptocurrency mining operations typically require significant amounts of electricity while generating minimal local employment or tax income.
In contrast, projects like mining operations or liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities are perceived as more advantageous to the economy.
Alongside the cryptocurrency ban, the province will limit electricity availability for AI and data centers and initiate a competitive allocation process in January 2026.
Specific regulations are expected to be released in November, with the competitive allocation process for electricity designated for AI and data centers planned for January 2026.
