France plans Bitcoin mining to use surplus nuclear energy
Mining centres would help balance France’s electricity grid by using excess power from nuclear plants during low demand.
French lawmakers have proposed a pilot scheme to use excess nuclear energy for Bitcoin mining, potentially generating up to $150 million in annual revenue. The five-year plan would redirect surplus electricity towards mining operations, helping to stabilise the country’s energy grid.
Growing use of renewables such as wind and solar has caused frequent imbalances and overproduction on the grid. Mining centres located near nuclear plants would activate only when surplus power is available, providing a flexible solution without affecting consumer supply.
The scheme also aims to offset maintenance costs for France’s nuclear fleet.
Mining rigs generate significant heat that could be reused for district heating or agriculture, as seen in Finland. The French Council of State will monitor the pilot, with a full review after six months.
France joins a select group of countries exploring Bitcoin mining as a strategic way to manage electricity oversupply, including Pakistan, Belarus, and Texas in the US.
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