Laos plans to halt electricity supply to cryptocurrency mining farms by early 2026, according to Deputy Energy Minister Chanthaboun Soukaloun. The decision aims to redirect power to sectors that bolster economic growth, such as AI data centers, metal refining, and electric vehicles. Currently, crypto mining farms in Laos consume about 150 megawatts, significantly reduced from a peak of 500 megawatts in 2021 and 2022. The government initially supplied power to the crypto industry due to an electricity surplus, but now seeks to prioritize industries that offer greater economic benefits.