In France, lawmakers introduced a legislative proposal on July 11 aimed at utilizing surplus electricity for Bitcoin 
$76,429 mining over a five-year period. This initiative targets to create new revenue streams for companies by eliminating the need to sell excess electricity at a loss. Additionally, it aims to strengthen the national power grid’s stability and reduce the wear and tear on nuclear power plants due to frequent power modulations. The proposal includes the conversion of abandoned industrial sites near power sources into data centers, presenting an opportunity for France to become a leading player in the cryptocurrency ecosystem through a controlled and carbon-free electricity mix.
Mining Solution for Surplus Electricity
Electricity producers often have to sell excess electricity generated on sunny and windy days at loss due to insufficient storage capacity. The proposal envisions directing this surplus electricity directly to Bitcoin mining equipment, thereby turning economic losses into profits. This flexible consumption model aims to smooth out the fluctuations within the grid, reduce the frequent on-off cycles of reactors, and extend the infrastructure’s lifespan.
During the five-year pilot phase, mining centers near power plants will operate with minimal transmission costs. According to the regulations, electricity consumption by these facilities can be instantly reduced upon operator instruction, making them the first to be turned off during power imbalances. This controlled demand approach aligns with France’s green energy targets and directly contributes to grid stability.
Economic and Environmental Benefits of the Plan
According to the industry association ADAN, dedicating just 1 GW of capacity for mining could generate revenues of $100-150 million annually. The plan also contemplates utilizing the heat produced by the mining equipment. By collecting the hot air with heat exchangers, it can be repurposed for heating buildings, greenhouses, or industrial processes, thereby adding value to electricity use and boosting efficiency.
This model, proven technically feasible, is currently implemented in renewable energy contexts in Iceland, Norway, and Sweden. French lawmakers emphasize that following a similar path could grant the country a strategic advantage in the digital economy and revitalize idle factory areas. Should the process become law, the first facilities are anticipated to commence operations at the beginning of 2026.
