France Proposes Bitcoin Mining to Tackle Energy Waste and Boost Nuclear Efficiency
France is exploring a novel approach to managing excess electricity—turning surplus power into profit through Bitcoin mining.
A new bill submitted to the National Assembly outlines a five-year test program aimed at redirecting unused energy from the national grid, especially from nuclear plants, to crypto mining facilities.
Lawmakers backing the proposal cite data suggesting that utilizing just one gigawatt of otherwise wasted electricity could generate up to $150 million annually. Beyond the revenue potential, the plan seeks to reduce the financial burden of maintaining France’s nuclear infrastructure by monetizing energy that would otherwise be sold at a loss.
The strategy also addresses grid instability caused by the growing share of renewables like wind and solar, which can result in overproduction during low-demand periods. Instead of wasting this energy, mining centers would absorb it on demand, without affecting consumer supply.
To maximize efficiency, mining operations would be set up near power generation sites or repurposed industrial locations. Lawmakers also emphasized heat reuse, suggesting that thermal output from mining rigs could support greenhouses, heating systems, or industrial use—citing Finland as a model for such integration.
If approved, the pilot would begin immediately, overseen by the French Council of State. France joins a broader international trend as countries like Pakistan and regions like Texas explore crypto mining as a tool to stabilize power grids and capture economic value from energy surpluses.
Alexander Zdravkov is a market analyst and crypto journalist with interests in economics, broader financial markets and digital assets. His journey into crypto began more than four years ago, driven by a fascination with the rapid evolution of blockchain technology and the transformative potential of decentralized finance. He began analyzing market cycles and identifying emerging trends before they reach the mainstream. He holds a degree in International Relations - a background that helped shape his broader perspective on global economics, geopolitics, and the interconnected nature of modern financial markets. Whether covering the latest developments in the crypto sector or exploring broader macroeconomic themes, Alexander focuses on giving readers context rather than simply repeating headlines. During his career, he has authored more than 10,000 articles covering cryptocurrencies, traditional finance, and global market developments. His work spans everything from Bitcoin and altcoins to macroeconomic trends influencing risk assets worldwide.
