A bold proposal from French lawmakers may soon allow Bitcoin mining using excess nuclear energy, potentially transforming how surplus power is utilized across Europe’s largest nuclear grid.
Bitcoin Mining With Nuclear Energy Gains Traction in France
French members of parliament are working on a draft law that supports Bitcoin mining operations powered by unused electricity from nuclear power plants. This electricity, often lost in the energy cycle, could instead be directed to mine Bitcoin efficiently within facilities managed by the state utility provider.
This initiative aims to turn energy waste into economic opportunity, positioning France at the forefront of sustainable and secure crypto mining in the European Union.
France Leads EU in Nuclear Energy Production
According to Eurostat’s 2023 figures, France generated over 338,000 gigawatt-hours of nuclear power, contributing more than half of the EU’s total nuclear output. Yet, the data also shows that more than two-thirds of this thermal energy is typically lost during conversion. By redirecting this surplus into Bitcoin mining, France may enhance energy efficiency while tapping into a high-profit digital asset sector.
Aurélien Lopez-Liguori, one of the MPs involved in the draft, described the strategy as “a secure and extremely profitable solution”. Though still in early stages, the proposal revives interest after a prior amendment to evaluate crypto mining’s role in the national energy mix was rejected in June.
Global Trend of Energy-Backed Bitcoin Mining
France is not alone in exploring surplus energy mining. In May, Pakistan committed 2,000 megawatts of unused electricity from coal-fired plants to support Bitcoin mining and AI infrastructure. Meanwhile, private firms in regions like South America and North America are also increasingly deploying crypto rigs where grid overcapacity exists.
A Strategic Step Toward Clean Crypto Mining
If approved, this proposal could make France a leader in clean, government-backed Bitcoin mining, reducing energy waste while supporting blockchain infrastructure. With rising institutional adoption of crypto assets, such policies may help bridge environmental responsibility with technological advancement.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency trading involves risk and may result in financial loss.