France Bets Big: Lawmakers Propose Bitcoin Mining Boom Using Excess Nuclear Power

Nuclear-powered Bitcoin mining? French MPs just threw gasoline on the crypto vs. climate debate.

Lawmakers are pitching a radical plan to harness surplus energy from the country's 56 reactors—currently wasted during low-demand periods—to fuel Bitcoin mining operations. The move could turn France into a European crypto powerhouse overnight.

Critics are already howling about energy waste, while crypto bulls see genius: 'Finally, someone's monetizing all that stranded megawattage,' quipped one trader. 'Next they'll be mining Satoshis with baguette power.'

The proposal comes as Bitcoin's hash rate continues its relentless climb—up 45% year-to-date—despite the 2024 bear market. With nuclear providing stable baseload power, France could undercut competitors relying on volatile renewable sources.

One finance veteran couldn't resist: 'Typical government logic—solve an energy surplus by creating a speculative asset bubble. The French do love their bubbles.'