Tether Faces Challenges in Uruguay Mining, Highlighting Crypto Industry's Sensitivity to Energy Expenses

Tether’s Uruguay

Mining Expansion Stalls Amid Energy Payment Conflict

The growth of Tether’s Bitcoin mining activities in Uruguay has been abruptly halted after the country’s state utility, UTE, cut power to two mining facilities due to outstanding debts amounting to nearly $5 million as of July 25, 2025. This disruption impacts operations in the Flores and Florida regions, bringing expansion to a standstill and casting doubt on the practicality of energy-dependent cryptocurrency ventures in areas with stringent payment standards.

originally joined forces with local enterprise Microfin in 2023, aiming to utilize Uruguay’s clean energy resources for eco-friendly mining—a step in line with Tether’s goal of expanding beyond its stablecoin business.

The conflict began in May 2025 as overdue payments started to mount. Although UTE and Microfin signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in June 2025 that required debts to be cleared, the ongoing arrears led to the shutdown. UTE, which produces 95% of Uruguay’s power from renewables, referenced standard protocol for cutting service to clients in default and noted that all guarantees had been depleted. Tether hasn’t issued a public statement, but the episode highlights the difficulties of sustaining energy-heavy operations while meeting financial commitments in regulated environments.

Operational fallout includes a steep decline in hash rate, postponed expansion projects, and extra expenditures to restart activities. These mining locations, key to Tether’s ambition to control 1% of the global Bitcoin network, now face an uncertain path as discussions proceed. Experts stress that energy expenses are the most volatile factor in mining profitability, and that consistent pricing and reliable contracts are essential for ongoing viability. Despite Uruguay’s renewable energy strengths, the risks from missed payments or contract disagreements remain unaddressed.

The situation has ignited discussion around how foreign investments are managed in essential infrastructure. Tether’s operations in Uruguay, including its investments in both energy and mining, were once presented as a blueprint for sustainable crypto projects. The debt dispute, however, exposes weaknesses in handling major energy agreements, especially for initiatives that depend on external partners. Microfin, the local collaborator whose exact ties to Tether are not fully clear, now faces both financial and reputational challenges as the debt issue is resolved.

On a larger scale, the incident brings attention to the need for stronger financial oversight and transparent management for crypto mining in emerging economies. While Uruguay’s green energy appeal makes it an attractive destination, the Tether case demonstrates the necessity of firm fiscal management and clear governance. Industry analysts warn that unresolved financial conflicts could discourage prospective investors, especially in markets where energy providers enforce rigid payment standards. For Tether, the resolution of this matter will be a key test of its capability to balance operational risks with its long-term goals in both the cryptocurrency and energy industries.