Russian Power Provider Requests Crypto Miners to Power Down Rigs
The state-run power provider in the Russian republic of Dagestan has requested crypto miners to turn off their rigs during the winter season to prevent power outages and blackouts. In a Telegram post, the power provider, Dagenergo, politely addressed operators of “mining farms” and urged them to consider the well-being of their loved ones and neighbors. The company explained that mining equipment can overload the electrical network and cause disruptions. It highlighted that Makhachkala, the capital of Dagestan, is currently facing a particularly difficult situation during the cold season.
Dagestan Facing Challenges with Crypto Mining
According to Dagenergo, its analysis of the network load dynamics has revealed sharp increases in short periods, which suggests that mining farms are causing the overload. The company stated that its specialists are actively working to identify these farms and have dismantled 13 crypto mining centers in 2023. However, due to advancements in mining technology, it is becoming increasingly difficult to quickly identify these operations. Therefore, Dagenergo kindly requested miners throughout Dagestan to turn off their rigs during cold weather periods to ensure electricity supply for heating homes.
Previous Actions Against Illegal Mining Farms
Last year, the Northern Caucasus branch of PAO Rosseti shut down 36 illegal crypto mining farms in Dagestan, which were using unauthorized grid connections and resulted in damages worth approximately $1.8 million. One of the largest farms discovered had a power usage equivalent to a residential complex with 300 apartments. Illegal crypto mining has also caused energy-related issues in Abkhazia, where authorities have been conducting surprise raids on industrial facilities and private households.
Hot Take: Crypto Miners Urged to Conserve Energy in Dagestan
Dagenergo, the state-run power provider in Dagestan, Russia, has appealed to crypto miners to turn off their mining rigs during the winter season. The company expressed concerns about power outages and blackouts caused by the overload on the electrical network. It emphasized the need to prioritize the well-being of loved ones and neighbors, especially during the cold season in Makhachkala. Dagenergo acknowledged the challenges in identifying mining farms due to technological advancements but requested miners throughout Dagestan to cooperate and conserve energy for heating homes. This request follows previous actions against illegal mining farms in the region, highlighting the ongoing efforts to address energy-related issues associated with crypto mining.