Electricity theft linked to bitcoin mining activities caused RM4.8 billion in losses from 2018 to June 2025, according to Deputy Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir.

He described the situation as alarming and stressed the need for ongoing enforcement to protect national resources.

More Cases Reported in Recent Years

Akmal Nasrullah said electricity theft involving illegal bitcoin mining activities has been increasing. Between 2023 and 2024, authorities reported 2,399 cases. In the first half of 2025 alone, there have already been 1,800 additional cases.

He explained that this upward trend is linked to the rising value of bitcoin, which now trades at more than RM500,000 per unit. As the potential profit grows, more individuals are setting up mining operations. Some of these operations use electricity without passing through proper metering systems, leading to unbilled consumption, he said. 

Operations Target Suspected Premises

A joint enforcement operation was carried out by the Energy Commission, Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), and several other agencies. Seven premises suspected of electricity theft were inspected during the operation.

Seven premises suspected of electricity theft were inspected during the operation. The inspections were carried out under Section 37(3) of the Electricity Supply Act 1990, with court-issued warrants. According to the authorities, the targeted premises were believed to be used for mining activities that bypass electricity meters.

“These operations help identify and act against connections that are not recorded or billed,” said Akmal Nasrullah. “This is part of our ongoing effort to manage electricity use and ensure compliance with regulations.”

Public Cooperation Plays a Role

Akmal Nasrullah also encouraged public awareness and participation. He asked residents and business owners to look out for unusual setups, such as cables connected directly to power lines without going through a registered meter.

“If you notice anything that appears to bypass the meter, please report it,” he said. “Public cooperation supports the enforcement process and helps reduce electricity losses.”

With the price of bitcoin at its highest ever, enforcement agencies expect continued attempts to avoid electricity costs through unmetered usage.

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• TAGS:
• 4.8 Billion
• Akmal Nasrullah
• Bitcoin
• Bitcoin Mining
• Electricity Theft
• Energy Commission
• Tenaga Nasional Berhad