Norway’s Government Explores Crypto Mining Ban Amid Energy Supply Concerns

The Norwegian government is evaluating a crypto mining ban to reduce energy consumption and preserve local infrastructure capacity, potentially implementing the measure as early as autumn.

Ban May Target High-Energy Data Centers

On Friday, Norway’s Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development revealed it is considering a temporary crypto mining ban under the country’s Planning and Building Act. The proposal aims to “free up power, network capacity and area for other purposes,” citing increasing pressure on national energy resources.

The government plans to launch an investigation in the autumn to assess the environmental and economic impact of mining operations. If necessary, a temporary ban could be implemented swiftly based on findings.

The ministry noted:

“It is uncertain how big a problem crypto mining will become in Norway in the future. The registration requirement in the new data center regulations will provide increased knowledge about the scope of data centers that mine cryptocurrency.”

Rising Power Costs and Public Backlash

Like many European countries, Norway has experienced rising energy prices in the wake of Russia’s war in Ukraine and resulting sanctions on oil and gas supplies. Local communities have also raised complaints over noise pollution from mining operations.

Past petitions have called for the shutdown of crypto data centers located in residential zones, citing health and environmental concerns.

Norway Joins Global Trend Against Crypto Mining

If implemented, the crypto mining ban would align Norway with other nations adopting restrictive policies on digital asset mining:

• Russia began imposing mining bans in 10 regions in early 2025 to prevent grid blackouts.
• China initiated a nationwide crypto mining ban in 2021, pushing miners to relocate to countries like the US.
• In the United States, energy-intensive mining practices have drawn criticism, but crypto mining remains legal and largely unregulated at the federal level.

What Has Happened So Far

• June 2021: China bans all crypto mining operations, triggering global miner migration.
• January 2025: Russia enforces mining bans in 10 regions due to power shortages.
• February 2025: Norway introduces registration requirements for crypto data centers.
• June 2025: Norwegian officials announce potential ban investigation for autumn.