Daniel Walker
In a bold move to transform unused nuclear energy into economic opportunity, a group of 76 French lawmakers has introduced a proposal to launch a national Bitcoin mining program. Spearheaded by members of the National Rally, the plan envisions leveraging France’s substantial surplus of nuclear electricity to support a five-year pilot focused on cryptocurrency mining.
France, known for deriving over 70% of its electricity from nuclear power, frequently generates more energy than it consumes—particularly during periods of low demand. Rather than selling this excess at a financial loss or letting it go to waste, lawmakers suggest putting it to productive use through Bitcoin mining.
Why Bitcoin Mining Makes Sense for France’s Energy Landscape
The country’s nuclear plants routinely produce electricity beyond what is needed. Without adequate storage or redistribution infrastructure, this excess can cause economic inefficiencies and grid instability.
According to French media outlet Le Monde, proponents argue that channeling this power into digital mining could provide a sustainable, high-tech solution. The initiative is framed as part of a larger push for energy sovereignty and economic modernization, with mining operations proposed to be located directly beside nuclear plants for instantaneous access to surplus power.
The Five-Year Plan: What Lawmakers Are Proposing
The submitted bill outlines a comprehensive five-year pilot project, allowing licensed operators to use surplus electricity for Bitcoin mining under strict government supervision. Operations would only run when the national grid experiences excess capacity, ensuring no impact on consumer supply or grid reliability.
The plan also includes several secondary benefits:
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Repurposing waste heat from mining equipment.
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Revitalizing dormant infrastructure tied to former industrial zones.
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Boosting local economies through job creation and digital innovation.
According to projections by ADAN (Association for the Development of Digital Assets), using just one gigawatt of surplus energy could generate between $100 million and $150 million annually, helping to cover the fixed costs of France’s nuclear fleet and creating a new revenue stream for the state.
A Growing Global Trend in Strategic Crypto Mining
France is not the only country exploring this path. Governments around the world are increasingly viewing Bitcoin mining as a tool for energy optimization and economic resilience.
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Pakistan has announced plans to allocate up to 2,000 megawatts of surplus power for mining and AI-related infrastructure.
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Bhutan has emerged as a quiet giant in state-backed Bitcoin mining, accumulating over 11,400 BTC since 2020 through its national investment firm.
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El Salvador, meanwhile, powers its Bitcoin mining facilities with volcanic geothermal energy, positioning itself as a leader in eco-friendly crypto mining.
Conclusion: France’s Nuclear Future May Go Digital
With growing interest in decentralized finance and energy efficiency, France’s proposal represents more than a mining initiative—it signals a potential paradigm shift in how nations harness surplus power. If successful, it could position France at the forefront of the European crypto mining movement, while addressing long-standing challenges within its nuclear sector.
