Illegal mining "killed" Abkhazia's energy sector

Abkhazia is experiencing a state of emergency in the energy sector, one of the causes of which is illegal cryptocurrency mining. This was reported by TASS.

The region has faced a reduction in water levels at the Inguri Hydroelectric Power Station, which may lead to rolling blackouts and require additional electricity purchases. Over the past eight years, electricity consumption in Abkhazia has increased by 1 billion kWh, primarily due to ineffective measures against mining.

"We are on the brink of emergency depletion, and part of the republic may be left without electricity. Due to the drop in water influx levels, we have submitted a request for a larger electricity purchase, which will lead to an increase in electricity prices," said the CEO of "Chernomorenergo," Temur Djindjolia.

He noted that up to 98% of illegal electricity consumption is attributed to residential mining in houses.

"If it weren't for mining, the situation would be better. We need to come up with a solution related to searches in residential buildings," Djindjolia added.

In light of the situation, Acting Prime Minister Valery Bganba called for intensified efforts against cryptocurrency mining by identifying miners based on spikes in energy consumption. This year, the republic has confiscated 1,097 units of illegal equipment, with no large farms detected.