Belarus Considers Crypto Mining to Utilize Surplus Nuclear Energy

In response to an order from President Alexander Lukashenko, Belarus is looking into using its excess electricity for bitcoin mining. The Astravets Nuclear Power Plant, which has been in service since 2023, produced 41.8 billion kWh of power last year, according to a report released by BelTA on March 4, 2025. This was 700 million kWh more than the country used, and Lukashenko began searching for methods to make money off of the extra energy.

Lukashenko’s translated remarks—“We have excess electricity. Let them make this cryptocurrency”—suggest that the government is weighing multiple options. Authorities may establish state-controlled mining operations or allow private firms to purchase electricity for their own mining activities. This move follows a global trend, with countries like El Salvador and Bhutan using renewable energy sources for crypto mining. However, Belarus’s approach stands out due to its reliance on nuclear power.

Economic and Political Considerations

Belarus’s plan could face geopolitical and regulatory challenges. The Astravets plant was built with a $10 billion loan from Russia, which may add strategic concerns if Belarus becomes a major player in crypto mining. Additionally, the country’s close ties to Russia and ongoing Western sanctions raise questions about the long-term feasibility of the project.

Despite potential hurdles, Belarus offers some of the lowest electricity costs in Europe. This could attract crypto mining companies looking for cost-effective energy solutions. However, the government has yet to outline clear regulations or define specific cryptocurrency targets.

Lukashenko has also pointed to global financial shifts as a reason to explore digital assets. He recently referenced former U.S. President Donald Trump’s comments on creating a strategic cryptocurrency reserve, viewing it as part of a broader trend. In January, he suggested Belarus might develop its own sovereign digital currency. Additionally, in May 2024, he noted that several countries were questioning reliance on the U.S. dollar.

By tapping into its energy surplus, Belarus could position itself as a key player in crypto mining. However, success will depend on regulatory clarity and international market dynamics.