The government of British Columbia, Canada, has introduced a groundbreaking bill that could permanently ban new cryptocurrency mining operations and impose strict energy restrictions on artificial intelligence (AI) data centers. The proposed legislation, titled the Energy Statutes Amendment Act, marks a major step toward redefining how the province allocates its clean energy resources amid rising global demand for digital infrastructure.
Submitted to the Legislative Assembly on October 20, 2025, the bill aims to amend existing energy laws to prioritize sectors that drive economic growth and job creation, such as mining, natural gas extraction, and large-scale industrial projects. At the same time, it seeks to limit power supply for energy-intensive technologies, including AI data centers and cryptocurrency mining farms.
According to the official statement, the initiative is designed to attract sustainable investments, ensure responsible energy distribution, and address the “unprecedented surge in electricity demand” caused by data-heavy technologies. Premier David Eby emphasized that the law is a key part of British Columbia’s strategy to modernize its energy infrastructure.
“This legislation will accelerate construction of the North Coast Transmission Line, a nation-scale project delivering clean and renewable power to support responsible industrial growth,” Eby stated. “It’s about building a stronger economy, creating stable jobs, and ensuring our communities and families benefit from sustainable development.”
The bill also signals the government’s decision to prioritize power allocation to essential sectors such as mining and natural gas operations, which are considered vital to regional economic stability. However, it explicitly prohibits the connection of new crypto mining facilities to the provincial power grid, citing concerns over grid overload and potential electricity price hikes.
This legislative move follows years of growing tension between digital asset miners and Canadian energy authorities. In 2022, British Columbia imposed a temporary moratorium on new mining farm connections, later extended in 2024. If approved, the new bill will make this ban permanent, effectively positioning British Columbia as one of the most restrictive regions in North America for crypto mining operations.
Meanwhile, similar measures are being explored elsewhere. In the United States, New York State has proposed a cryptocurrency mining tax aimed at mitigating environmental impacts and high energy consumption. The growing trend of regulatory crackdowns highlights how governments are increasingly balancing innovation with sustainability.
Conclusion
The British Columbia Energy Amendment Bill represents a turning point in how governments view digital industries’ access to public energy resources. By restricting crypto mining and AI energy use, the province aims to safeguard its clean power infrastructure for long-term industrial growth. While this move may deter crypto miners, it reflects a broader global shift toward green energy priorities and sustainable digital transformation.
