While global approaches to crypto mining varym China opted for outright bans, whereas the U.S. allowed it to flourish, France has yet to define its stance. Now, a coalition in the National Assembly is calling for clarity.
These parliamentarians have introduced a draft amendment to the energy legislation titled “National Programming and Regulatory Simplification in the Energy Sector.” The motion proposes that the government assess the viability of domestic Bitcoin mining, especially as a means to better manage electricity production and consumption.
France evaluates its future in digital currency mining
According to Journal du Coin, France could be edging closer to the pro-mining camp. The publication highlights this initiative as part of a broader effort to position France within the evolving crypto-mining ecosystem.
The ultimate goal: determine whether minting digital currencies could play a strategic role in balancing energy loads across Europe’s largest electricity market.
The bill stated, “This amendment aims to objectify, through an evaluation report submitted to the Parliament, the conditions under which Bitcoin mining could be used as a tool to serve the French electricity system.”
France stands as the region’s top producer and exporter of electricity, thanks in large part to its extensive nuclear power industry, which generates more than 70% of the nation’s energy. The remainder comes from a mix of renewables and fossil fuels.
Bitcoin Mining Touted as a Tool to Harness France’s Excess Electricity
As France explores ways to enhance the efficiency of its predominantly state-run nuclear energy sector, one pressing issue is the effective utilization of surplus electricity. Lawmakers behind a new legislative proposal argue that Bitcoin mining presents a promising solution due to its technical flexibility and *minimal impact on grid stability.
They point out that crypto mining operations can be swiftly scaled up or down based on fluctuations in electricity demand, making them ideal for managing energy peaks and troughs. These mining facilities can also be located close to power generation sites, including remote areas, helping to reduce transmission strain.
Moreover, supporters believe that developing a low-carbon crypto mining industry under state oversight could revitalize underused industrial zones, boost technological innovation, and reinforce France’s energy sovereignty.
The findings emphasize France’s potential gains from embracing crypto mining. “In short: an activity that can adapt to the constraints of the electricity system, absorb energy surpluses, reduce negative prices on wholesale markets, and relieve the burden on nuclear power plants by avoiding overly frequent modulation cycles, which accelerate wear and tear on the installations.”
Although the forthcoming parliamentary debate on the amendment marks only an initial step, lawmakers emphasized that the evaluation phase will be crucial for shaping future policies centered on energy sovereignty, industrial innovation, and grid resilience.
The proposal was crafted in collaboration with ADAN, France’s Association for the Development of Digital Assets, which has played a leading role in advancing regulatory, tax, and mining frameworks for the country’s crypto sector.
