Canton of Bern in Switzerland is looking to Bitcoin mining as a potential solution for utilizing surplus energy and stabilizing its electricity grid.
The local parliament just passed a motion to explore this idea.
Big decision, bold move
On March 14, 2024, the cross-party Parliamentary Group Bitcoin introduced this initiative, which sailed through with an 85 to 46 vote in the Grand Council, despite some pushback from the government.
The motion directs the government to investigate how Bitcoin mining can make use of unused energy and create economic opportunities for the region.
The proposal, dubbed “Cantonal Bitcoin Strategy III,” wants to position Bern as a prime location for innovative Bitcoin ventures.
It tasks the government with preparing a report that focuses on three main areas, like identifying unused energy sources in Bern, exploring how Bitcoin mining could tap into this surplus in partnership with Swiss mining companies, and assessing its potential to stabilize the electricity grid during supply fluctuations.
Economic benefits, learning from Texas
The proposal shared that Bitcoin mining companies can bring in investments, create jobs, and even help develop renewable energy sources worldwide.
Support for the motion came from various political factions, including the Swiss People’s Party, Green Liberal Party, Center Party, and EDU. Even some left-green groups had mixed feelings about it.
Samuel Kullmann, an EDU representative and one of the proposal’s champions, celebrated the vote as a win against skepticism.
“Despite all the classic FUD arguments that clouded the debate, we managed to secure a clear majority.”
Drawing inspiration from Texas, where Bitcoin miners have teamed up with grid operators to balance energy supply and demand, the proposal suggests that Bern could achieve similar success.
But it’s worth noting that the government council had previously recommended rejecting this motion due to concerns over energy consumption and competition with other sectors.
Zero emission electric miners
Of course, the discussion around Bitcoin mining isn’t without its critics. Many raise alarms about its environmental impact, pointing out that proof-of-work cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin consume more energy than some countries.
But mining devices are electric ones, they works like electric cars. Zero emission.
In March, Greenpeace accused the Bitcoin mining industry of having deep ties to fossil fuels and right-wing climate deniers, sparking significant backlash.
Turned out Greenpeace got millions of dollars of „donation” from proof-of-stake projects.
Also new research indicates that banning Bitcoin mining might not cut emissions as intended.
A study found that restrictions in certain areas could inadvertently increase global carbon emissions by shifting operations to regions with less sustainable energy sources.
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