TLDR
France’s far-right party backs Bitcoin mining using surplus nuclear power.
The proposal could generate up to $150 million per gigawatt annually.
Excess nuclear energy in France often gets wasted, costing millions yearly.
The plan faces political challenges from environmentalists and opposition parties.
In an unexpected move, France’s far-right party, Rassemblement National (RN), has proposed using the country’s surplus nuclear energy for Bitcoin mining. This suggestion comes after years of opposition to cryptocurrencies, marking a significant shift in the party’s stance. The proposal could potentially help France address its ongoing energy surplus problem and generate substantial revenue.
The idea was first introduced during a visit by RN leader Marine Le Pen to the Flamanville nuclear power plant earlier this year. Le Pen, who once advocated for a total ban on cryptocurrencies, now sees Bitcoin mining as a way to make use of the country’s excess energy and improve its economy.
Addressing Energy Surplus with Bitcoin Mining
France is one of the world’s most nuclear-dependent nations, with over 70% of its electricity generated from nuclear power. While this ensures low carbon emissions, it also creates a problem: energy surpluses. During periods of low demand, the country often produces more electricity than it can use.
This surplus is sold at a loss or, in some cases, other countries are paid to take the excess power off France’s hands.
In 2024, the country exported 89 TWh of electricity but faced losses of €80 million due to negative electricity prices. The situation became more severe in 2025, with France’s transmission operator paying thousands of euros to dispose of excess electricity. This waste has prompted lawmakers to consider new ways to utilize the unused power.
Proposal for Bitcoin Mining at Nuclear Facilities
The RN’s proposed legislation, introduced in July 2025, outlines a pilot program aimed at using surplus energy for Bitcoin mining. The program would involve installing mining equipment at nuclear plants operated by the state-owned utility, Électricité de France (EDF). The bill proposes a five-year test phase, during which energy producers would redirect unused electricity to mining operations.
According to industry experts, one gigawatt of unused power could generate between $100 million to $150 million annually in Bitcoin revenue.
The mining operation would be designed to prioritize regular consumers’ energy needs, with mining equipment shutting down during periods of high demand. This would ensure that the mining operation does not interfere with everyday power consumption.
Political and Environmental Challenges
Despite the financial potential of the proposal, the plan faces significant political hurdles. Opposition parties, environmental groups, and some within the RN itself have expressed concerns. Environmental advocates argue that crypto mining is energy-intensive and goes against efforts to reduce carbon emissions. They also question the sustainability of using nuclear power for such operations.
Within the RN, some members remain wary of embracing Bitcoin. Senior party officials have expressed concerns that the move could undermine France’s control over its currency and financial system.
“Bitcoin mining could lead to a loss of state control over money, which contradicts the party’s vision of monetary sovereignty,” one RN official noted.
On the other hand, some government officials, including Digital Minister Clara Chappaz, have shown openness to the idea. Chappaz has suggested that the government should examine the proposal from an economic perspective rather than through an ideological lens.
A Growing Global Trend
While France’s plan is still in its early stages, it is part of a broader trend of governments exploring ways to use excess energy for cryptocurrency mining. Countries like Bhutan, El Salvador, and Pakistan have already launched or proposed state-backed mining initiatives that harness surplus energy, such as hydropower or geothermal sources.
For example, Bhutan has become one of the largest state-backed Bitcoin miners, accumulating significant Bitcoin reserves from its hydroelectric-powered operations. Similarly, El Salvador mines Bitcoin using volcanic geothermal energy, while Pakistan plans to redirect excess power for both Bitcoin mining and AI data centers.
As nations continue to explore how to use digital assets to boost their economies, France’s proposal could mark a new chapter in the global competition for digital financial dominance.
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