France Wants to Turn Spare Nuclear Power into Bitcoin Mining Revenue

France is considering a five-year trial to use extra electricity from its nuclear power plants to mine Bitcoin. The goal is to make money from energy that would otherwise go to waste. Lawmakers estimate that one gigawatt of unused power could generate $150 million annually. Bitcoin mining rigs would be set up near nuclear plants to operate when electricity demand is low, helping to stabilize the power grid. The project also explores using the heat produced by mining for heating greenhouses or local buildings. The trial, starting in Brittany, will be reviewed after six months to determine if the project should be expanded. Other countries, like Belarus, Pakistan, and the U.S. are also exploring using surplus power for Bitcoin mining.