Russia energy policy

Baltic States Sever Ties with Russian Energy Grid

The Baltics are on the cusp of a momentous occasion: severing their last remaining energy ties with Russia. A digital clock in Vilnius, Lithuania, dramatically counts down the days until February 8th, the date scheduled for the complete disconnection from the Russian and Belarusian electricity grid. This isn’t just about flipping a switch; it represents the culmination of years of strategic planning and substantial investment.

This momentous disconnection signifies a significant step towards complete energy independence for Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. For years, these nations shared a high-voltage power line infrastructure with their eastern neighbors, a legacy of the Soviet era.… Continue reading

Russia Bans Crypto Mining in Ten Regions Over Energy Concerns

A six-year ban on cryptocurrency mining, effective January 1, 2024, has been imposed in ten Russian regions due to the industry’s substantial energy consumption. This measure, potentially expanding to other regions during peak demand, reflects Russia’s ongoing struggle to regulate cryptocurrency despite its legalization in November 2023. While cross-border crypto payments remain permitted, the ban underscores the government’s efforts to balance energy needs with the evolving cryptocurrency landscape. Future adjustments to the ban are possible depending on energy demand fluctuations.

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