Legislative Initiative on Bitcoin Mining in France
In a proactive move, a cadre of French legislators is pushing for a comprehensive investigation into the potential of Bitcoin mining to capitalize on the country’s consistent electricity surplus. Presented to the French National Assembly on June 12, this initiative seeks to evaluate the feasibility of utilizing Bitcoin’s energy-intensive mining activities to manage excess electricity, particularly from the nation’s extensive nuclear energy output.
Proposal Overview
The proposal articulates a clear directive:
“In light of France’s pressing need to optimize surplus electricity generation—especially from nuclear and renewable resources—Bitcoin mining presents distinct technical advantages.”
Data from EBSCO reveals that nuclear power accounts for over 70% of France’s energy, making the nation a forefront player in clean energy. However, this reliance also leads to frequent instances of overproduction, resulting in substantial economic losses. For instance, Raphaël Bloch, co-founder of The Big Whale, noted that France incurred a staggering loss of nearly €80 million in wasted electricity in 2024 alone. The lawmakers contend that Bitcoin mining could have sustainably absorbed that surplus, translating waste into economic growth.
Assessment and Integration
The suggested amendment calls for an assessment report analyzing how Bitcoin mining could be integrated into the existing energy framework. They argue that Bitcoin mining facilities could serve as adaptable energy consumers, given their ability to rapidly shift operations on and off, be sited near power generation facilities, and operate at various scales without disrupting the grid.
Implementing this model, they say, would not only contribute to market stability in the energy sector, but it could also alleviate the stress on nuclear power plants by reducing the frequency of adjustments in power generation. Additionally, defunct industrial sites could be revitalized as Bitcoin mining hubs, while the excess heat produced from these operations could be redirected to warm neighboring cities or industries.
Future Prospects and Global Trend
Furthermore, the lawmakers have proposed establishing a regulated, low-emissions Bitcoin mining industry in France, citing that such a framework would complement the nation’s decarbonization ambitions while opening new avenues for technological innovation and employment opportunities.
This move reflects a larger global trend, where various countries are recognizing the strategic advantages of Bitcoin mining to address energy management challenges and drive innovation in their digital economies. Earlier this year, in a similar vein, Belarus’ President instructed his administration to explore Bitcoin mining as a method for utilizing surplus energy. More recently, Pakistan’s national crypto council unveiled plans to dedicate 2,000 megawatts of electricity for Bitcoin mining and artificial intelligence data centers. Daniel Batten, a researcher in the field of Bitcoin mining, highlighted that such initiatives underscore the pivotal role of Bitcoin mining’s unique energy consumption patterns in promoting energy affordability and availability.
