British Columbia has officially imposed a permanent ban on new cryptocurrency mining operations, marking a major move to preserve its power grid and steer energy use toward industries with broader economic and social benefits. The new legislation, unveiled this week, aims to balance clean energy management with the rising electricity demands of artificial intelligence and data centres.
According to the province’s Ministry of Energy and Climate Solutions, the decision ensures that British Columbia’s abundant clean energy supports projects that generate more stable jobs and long-term community growth. Energy Minister Adrian Dix emphasised that the province must act swiftly to “leverage our clean-electricity advantage,” noting that other jurisdictions have faced serious strain managing the surging energy consumption from emerging sectors like crypto mining and AI.
Under the new framework, electricity will be directed toward industries such as natural gas, hydrogen, and traditional mining sectors viewed as providing more consistent economic returns. The ministry warned that unchecked expansion of power-intensive activities like crypto mining could lead to grid instability and higher utility costs for households.
In addition to halting new crypto operations, British Columbia plans to set strict limits on electricity available for AI and data centres. Beginning in early 2026, BC Hydro—the government-owned power utility—will distribute 300 megawatts to AI facilities and 100 megawatts to data centres through a competitive selection process. For context, a single large facility such as Meta’s data centre in Texas consumes up to one gigawatt of electricity, underscoring the province’s cautious approach.
While crypto and AI projects face tighter controls, industries including forestry, hydrogen production, and manufacturing will continue to receive steady energy support. The province also intends to accelerate construction of the North Coast Transmission Line by streamlining approval procedures, potentially cutting as much as 18 months from project timelines.
To improve fairness and inclusion, the government will reform how connection costs are distributed, allowing multiple companies to share expenses that were previously borne by single entities. Indigenous communities will also gain opportunities for equity ownership in new energy projects, ensuring they share directly in the economic benefits of regional development.
British Columbia’s decision signals a clear stance in the global debate over crypto mining’s environmental footprint. By prioritising sustainable industries and Indigenous participation, the province is positioning itself as a model for how governments can manage the competing pressures of technological innovation and energy conservation.
