Laos to cut electricity supply to crypto miners by 2026, prioritizing industrial use

Laos is preparing to halt electricity provision to cryptocurrency mining operations by early 2026, shifting power focus to industries like AI data centers, metal refining, and EV production. The move reverses the 2021 policy that had encouraged mining, as officials argue it yields limited economic value or jobs. Energy usage by miners has already dropped from ~500 MW to ~150 MW. The shift will free resources for export and industrial growth in the region while reshaping Southeast Asia’s crypto landscape.