Swiss canton moves forward with Bitcoin mining report
While the Government Council remains sceptical of the global energy consumption implications, this initiative aligns with Switzerland’s pro-crypto reputation.
The Swiss canton of Bern’s parliament has approved a motion to commission a report on Bitcoin mining, despite opposition from the Government Council. The report, which passed with 85 votes in favour and 46 against, will explore the potential benefits and drawbacks of Bitcoin mining in the region. Specifically, it will assess how excess energy could be used for mining, the possible collaboration with Swiss Bitcoin miners, and how it could contribute to stabilising the local electricity grid.
Proponents of the report argue that Bitcoin mining could offer several advantages, including job creation, promotion of renewable energy, and grid stability, with the US state of Texas serving as a model. Despite the Government Council’s reservations, the proposal was supported by members of the Bitcoin Parliamentary Group, signalling a shift in the narrative around Bitcoin.
The report is part of a broader effort to shape Swiss energy policy and integrate Bitcoin mining into it, though the Government Council has pointed out that the issue of energy consumption is a global one, not local. Still, Switzerland’s reputation as a pro-crypto country remains intact, with cities like Zug and Lugano playing key roles in the blockchain industry.
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