Engagement on Cryptocurrency Mining Policy

Electrical Connections for Cryptocurrency Mining

B.C.’s clean, affordable electricity has attracted unprecedented interest from cryptocurrency miners. While BC Hydro welcomes new load and has available energy to use strategically for electric vehicles, heat pumps, clean technology, and industry, the unchecked growth of cryptocurrency mining operations in B.C. could make it more difficult to meet electrification goals in support of CleanBC and keep rates low for customers.

What has been done?

To preserve B.C.’s electricity supply, since December 2022, an 18-month, temporary suspension of new cryptocurrency mining connections to BC Hydro’s grid has been in effect. This pause gives government and BC Hydro time to engage with B.C. stakeholders and First Nations to develop a permanent framework for any future cryptocurrency mining operations. No new cryptocurrency projects may enter the queue or initiate the process of connection with BC Hydro during this 18-month suspension period. 

Developing a Permanent Policy Framework

While the suspension is in effect, the Ministry is leading the development of permanent policy that balances the public’s interest with the commercial interests of BC Hydro and cryptocurrency mining operations. A permanent policy governing the connection of cryptocurrency mining projects to electricity systems in B.C. is likely to influence the conditions under which future projects could connect to electricity systems in B.C. Although the current suspension on BC Hydro connecting new cryptocurrency mining operations does not apply to utilities other than BC Hydro, a permanent policy may extend to all utilities within B.C.

Engagement Process: Summer and Fall 2023

The Ministry is committed to engaging with B.C. First Nations, municipalities, utilities, industry associations, and the cryptocurrency mining industry to seek feedback on the development of a permanent policy regarding cryptocurrency mining connections to B.C.’s electricity system. If you represent one of these groups you may participate in the engagement process on a permanent policy framework. You are invited to indicate this interest by sending an email to electricity.policy@gov.bc.ca.