9h05 ▪
4
min read ▪ by
What if France became a hub of innovation for Bitcoin? While the debates on cryptocurrency often oscillate between fascination and distrust, Clara Chappaz, the delegated minister for Digital Affairs, opens an unprecedented door: exploiting French nuclear power to mine Bitcoin. A bold proposal, blending economic pragmatism and energy sovereignty. During a visit to Ledger, a French leader in blockchain security, the minister outlined a vision where the Hexagon could tame the paradoxes of Bitcoin. Not without nuance.
Bitcoin and nuclear: a marriage against debts?
The idea is not new, but it is gaining credibility. EDF, a public energy giant, is drowning under a debt of 65 billion euros. However, its nuclear plants sometimes produce an unused surplus of electricity…
Why not convert this energy into Bitcoin? A simple calculation: cryptocurrency mining valorizes excess electricity, generating instant revenues. Marine Le Pen mentioned it in Flamanville, but the government remained silent. Until now.
Clara Chappaz breaks the taboo. “This subject has been captured by extreme fringes of public debate, while it deserves serious analysis”
No noisy communication, but a thorough study. The recent appointment of Bernard Fontana at the head of EDF offers a fresh perspective. “We need to evaluate this without ideology, ask the right economic questions”, she insists. A pragmatism that contrasts with traditional postures.
There remains a pitfall: the image of Bitcoin, often associated with speculation or pollution. The minister knows this. “It’s inter-ministerial, not just digital”, she slips.
An implicit admission: to convince Bercy or the Energy Transition, figures will be needed, not slogans. What if France became a low carbon mining laboratory? The equation is tempting… but fragile.
If Bitcoin crystallizes economic hopes, it also questions French digital sovereignty. Another challenge awaits Clara Chappaz: reconciling innovation and regulation, between digital euro and administrative sluggishness.
The race against time
The digital euro is advancing, but fears persist. Christine Lagarde (ECB) sets October 2025 as the deadline for its launch.
Behind the scenes, Clara Chappaz listens to French stakeholders. The protection of personal data is crucial, she reminds.
A message to Brussels, where the project struggles to reassure. The minister promises dialogue spaces to carry local voices. But Europe is moving slowly, and France must play collectively.
“Let’s organize ourselves!”, she urges the ecosystem. Specifically, French companies need to unite their positions, despite their differences.
A challenge: how to reconcile pro-Bitcoin start-ups and traditional banks? The minister sees herself as a mediator, “a bridge between France and Europe.” A key role, as the European regulator (MiCA) imposes strict rules.
Another grievance: the delays from the AMF. PSAN approval requests drag on, hampering innovation. Clara Chappaz tackles the subject head-on. “I’ve discussed this with the AMF. Let’s simplify, let’s draw inspiration from abroad.”
A veiled criticism towards an administration that can sometimes be paralyzed. For the minister, accelerating procedures is vital. Can France become a crypto hub while respecting standards? The balance is delicate.
Clara Chappaz embodies a new generation of decision-makers: tech-savvy, yet realistic. Her approach to Bitcoin? Neither idealism nor rejection, but a quest for added value made in France. Between nuclear mining and the digital euro, the road is fraught with obstacles.
But one certainty remains: France refuses to be a spectator in a society where cash could soon disappear.
Maximize your Cointribune experience with our “Read to Earn” program! For every article you read, earn points and access exclusive rewards. Sign up now and start earning benefits.
Fascinated by Bitcoin since 2017, Evariste has continuously researched the subject. While his initial interest was in trading, he now actively seeks to understand all advances centered on cryptocurrencies. As an editor, he strives to consistently deliver high-quality work that reflects the state of the sector as a whole.
DISCLAIMER
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this article belong solely to the author, and should not be taken as investment advice. Do your own research before taking any investment decisions.
