On December 10, from midnight to 7:00 AM, internet providers in Abkhazia, at the behest of authorities, disconnected internet access across the republic to counteract illegal mining. This was reported by Interfax.
The government has established a task force to ensure the region’s energy security. Timur Dzhindzholia, CEO of Chernomorenergo, stated at a task force meeting that mining farms operating in Abkhazia consume 40-45 MW of power, or more than 350 million kWh annually.
“This is half or even slightly more than our current deficit. Even in such a difficult situation, illegal mining continues, further exacerbating the crisis, which affects the entire population of the country today,” added Dzhindzholia.
The republic’s authorities have already suspended classes in schools and kindergartens for a week. Since December 9, electricity is supplied twice during the day for two hours and 20 minutes.
A decision on whether to declare a state of emergency will be made by the end of the day.
Earlier, ForkLog reported that illegal miners have become the main cause of the energy crisis in Abkhazia.