Kazakhstan links electricity quotas to state crypto reserve

On July 18, Kazakhstan approved rules linking access to regulated electricity quotas for large crypto miners to transfers of mined digital assets into a state reserve managed by Astana Hub. The government published the measures as Government Resolution No. 638. The regulation takes effect on Aug. 1, 2026.

Miners applying for strategic status must meet technical and operational requirements. Each operator must own a digital mining data center with at least 150 megawatts of installed capacity. Mining equipment must deliver a minimum of 150 terahashes per second per unit. Operators must employ qualified technical staff, maintain on-site repair facilities, hold multiple internet service contracts and be current on tax and other mandatory payments.

Approved strategic miners must buy electricity from eligible domestic power-generating companies and sign agreements with an autonomous cluster fund at Astana Hub. Miners granted strategic status will receive electricity at regulated tariffs and access to quotas under the eligibility rules.

The regulation requires miners to transfer part of their mined crypto assets to the state-managed reserve, but it does not set a precise transfer rate. Some reports have cited a figure near 10 percent, which is not confirmed in the government text.

An April 2025 industry report ranked Kazakhstan fifth globally for Bitcoin mining activity. In September 2025, authorities established a state-backed digital asset vehicle focused on long-term reserves; its first announced investment involved a partnership with Binance Kazakhstan. In July 2026, a commercial bank and Binance Kazakhstan launched a crypto payments service that enables purchases through QR codes and point-of-sale terminals connected to the bank’s acquiring network.

The rules will be enforceable starting Aug. 1, 2026. Eligible operators may begin applying for strategic status under the criteria set out in the resolution.