abkhazia

ChainCatcher news, according to Cryptonews, due to the reduction of "humanitarian electricity" supply from Moscow to Abkhazia, it is expected that the emergency electricity provided by Russia will be exhausted by February 18. Abkhazia's only major hydroelectric power station has been shut down due to low reservoir water levels, and the government is unable to prevent crypto miners from continuing to operate large-scale mining farms through legal loopholes. Residents believe that law enforcement agencies are aware of the locations and owners of the mining farms but have not taken effective measures. This has led to anger among the Russian public and media regarding Abkhazia's energy consumption, as Russian taxpayers have to foot the bill, while domestic electricity prices in Russia are also rising.Timur Dzhindzholiya, head of the electricity supplier Chernomorenergo, stated that according to "Abkhazia's current consumption rate," the "electricity supply from Russia" can only "last until February 18." It is impossible to "extend" the emergency electricity supply for a "long time." Therefore, the provider has decided to extend the existing rolling blackout plan to six hours a day.

ChainCatcher news, according to Cryptonews, the Abkhazian police have recently intensified their crackdown on private crypto miners, seizing nearly 200 mining machines within four days. The Abkhazian State Security Service (SSS) conducted raids in cities such as Ochamchira and Sukhum from December 10 to 13, confiscating 194 mining machines. The Ministry of Internal Affairs also seized 10 mining machines from the Gudauta and Gagra districts.Timur Dzhindzholiya, head of Chernomorenergo, stated that despite the implementation of rolling blackouts, energy consumption has not decreased, indicating that crypto mining continues to consume a significant amount of electricity. On December 10, internet service providers suspended the network for seven hours in an attempt to alleviate the pressure of mining on the power grid. On December 11, the Inguri Hydroelectric Power Station was forced to shut down for 24 hours due to low water levels.In addition, Abkhazia's acting Prime Minister Bganba has called on the government to consider declaring a state of emergency in the energy sector.