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Blockchain, Bitcoin and energy: Fusional couple?
Mis à jour le
March 6, 2026
8
Min reading
Blockchain, Bitcoin, and Energy, the interactions between these different concepts are multiple and raise numerous and legitimate questions.
Indeed, the computer processes implemented in the creation of Bitcoins are extremely energy-intensive. The amount of energy to mine Bitcoin over a year is estimated at the equivalent of Argentina's electricity consumption (121 TWh) according to a recent study by the University of Cambridge.
An estimation tool has been set up, the Cambridge Bitcoin Electricity Consumption Index, which, depending on the cost of electricity chosen, gives an estimate of the electricity consumption induced by the creation of Bitcoins in the world.
This is an estimate, but the initial results are clearly dizzying. In the era of energy transition, this is an obstacle to achieving CO₂ emission reduction goals. All this depends on the source of electricity generation used, would you tell me? Well you would be right.
The question is actually not that simple and deserves consideration. The technological innovations brought about by Blockchain technology also represent a limitless source of improvement. They are an alternative to the current system in terms of many processes.
As Peter Drucker said in 1954: “Systematic innovation requires the willingness to see change as an opportunity”. This is exactly why research into the possible applications of these technologies must be carried out.
We will therefore first see the principles and foundations of Blockchain technology in a simplified manner. We can then try to assess the impact of these innovations on the energy sector with a better understanding of the challenges.
Principles and operation of blockchain technology
The architecture of the project
There is a report, No. 1092 of the Parliamentary Office for the Evaluation of Scientific and Technological Choices (OPECST) which defines Blockchain as being “information storage and transmission technologies, allowing the creation of replicated and distributed registers, without a central control body, secured through cryptography and structured by blocks linked to each other, at regular intervals of time.”
It is a very comprehensive definition that gives us a lot of information. If we want to simplify it, we can say that it is a system capable of recording exchanges of information (transactions) in a manner Safe and tamper-proof, of verify them, without a central control body, and all this in a decentralized manner.
This system consists of a network of different participants. The principle is to imagine a registry which contains all the information concerning all transactions. There is not a single register held by a central body. This register is copied to all computers of the blockchain in a decentralized way.
Thus, to validate a transaction, the constituent elements of the transaction must be identical in tutti the registers. This is how a verification and validation process is done by all the members of the blockchain. This makes it forgery-proof and decentralized, through the exchange of encrypted and automatically verified information by The set participants in the block network.
We emphasize character decentralized of this technology, because it is at the heart of the algorithms that constitute it. In fact, this is one of the factors explaining the large energy consumption of this method, as we will see.
Thus, to guarantee the authenticity of a transaction, we have seen that each participant must validate a certain amount of information. When all members have given their validations, then the transaction is completed. It is said that the block integrates the chain.
The foundations of Blockchain
To make this process possible, blockchain systems use what is called” the Hash ”. The “hash” is a cryptographic process which makes it possible to reduce all the data contained in the block (the transaction) to a limited series of numbers and letters. In this way, the content of the transaction is encrypted.
The blockchain participant, what could be called a “miner”, contributes to its verification and returns a response. This computer process requires a great deal of computing power in order to be able to process a considerable quantity of data. The needs in terms of computing capacity are therefore an increasing function of the demand for cryptocurrency..
This is the reason why, today for example, mining Bitcoin takes much longer than mining a new cryptocurrency. Here we see a linear process taking shape: the stronger the democratization, the more demand will also follow. Providing this computing power has an electrical cost and contributes to increased demand.
What are the types of blockchain?
There are several types of blockchains: public, consortium, or private. Public blockchains attract a lot of miners and contribute to a probable increase in the indicators mentioned above.
Blockchain technology is a subject at the border of many fields: cryptography, computer science, mathematics and its numerous applications. However, we now have the basic knowledge to be able to understand its applications in energy.
Does the creation of cryptocurrencies represent a threat to the environment and the energy transition?
The Proof of Work
If you want to understand the global impact of Blockchain, you need to look at the creation of cryptocurrency. The algorithm for the transaction validation process is called “Proof of Work” or proof of work.
To understand this algorithm, let's take the Bitcoin block network as an example. Within this network, all miners are actually competing to solve these cryptographic problems.
The difficulty is automatically calibrated so that every 10 min, a transaction is validated by one of the minors. In other words, all minors perform their computational “work” by solving mathematical equations with varying difficulties. Only one of them is rewarded by creating a Bitcoin on their account (wallet).
As we have seen, the greater the computing capacity, the more possible the creation of cryptocurrency will be. This is why we have seen the appearance of large dedicated data centers. They are found in China, Iceland or even Israel. These mining farms are extremely power-hungry.
It is reasonable to consider this type of process to be contrary to the principle of energy sobriety urgent today. However, we can imagine that an electricity-consuming process is at least “sustainable” as long as it is backed by energy production that does not emit CO₂. Unfortunately, it depends heavily on energy mix of this country.
An energy-intensive activity?
The quantities of electricity are colossal, as you can see on this graph:
Countries such as China, the United States, Russia or even Kazakhstan are very present in the field of cryptocurrency mining, and if we focus on China, three quarters of its electrical mix is fromfossil origin. Hard to believe that this process, under these conditions, allows us to take the necessary turn in the energy transition.
These data are worrying and creating political tensions. In this regard, in the United Kingdom, former parliamentarian Nick Boles asks The outright ban on Bitcoin. He also points out the electrical waste in the process of creating Bitcoins.
This intervention comes on top of a long list of statements by political leaders on the subject, often worrisome but sometimes also without a real understanding of the subject, it should be emphasized as it is so complex.
In any case, it is hard to believe at first glance that this kind of process as it stands can promote the energy transition, and in any case it raises the question of political choices for electricity production at the level of society as a whole. This is a choice of production model, much broader than that of cryptocurrencies.
How can these new technologies be applied to the energy sector in a beneficial and sustainable way?
What changes are possible?
As we have just seen, thanks to its operation and technical structure, cryptocurrency mining represents a risk in terms of electricity demand. But it turns out that Blockchain technologies are constantly evolving at the time of writing. And it is theoretically possible to significantly reduce The ecological footprint processes for creating cryptocurrencies.
The model of Proof of Work that you saw in the second part is extremely energy-intensive, however another algorithm has been developed: The Proof of Stake, created in response to the faults of the previous system. This is a more recent methodology. The first cryptocurrency to use Proof of Stake was Peercoin, created in 2012.
The big difference between these two models lies in the determination of the “winners” of the transaction and in the method of remuneration of the latter. The winner is the minor who wins the competition in the case of Proof of Work. In the case of a Proof of Stake, users must have a certain number of Tokens of a cryptocurrency.
The method of remuneration is also different. In exchange, the user receives a portion of the transaction fees. In conclusion, The race for maximum installed power in order to increase cryptocurrency production is no longer necessary, computing power no longer comes into play. This is one of the great advantages of the model Proof of Stake and a change that allows us to hope for a sustainable application of Blockchain technologies while taking into account the environmental issues that will punctuate the 21st century.
For this reason, we can mention cryptocurrency. ethereum (ETH), which is one of the largest exchanges to date, and which decided to switch to this new block validation model. This is a positive signal given the reputation and importance of this cryptocurrency in the world. An example soon to be followed?
There are also other reasons for hope about this innovation. A number of projects are currently under study, and as such, we can cite some examples of applications in the world of energy:
- Information certification: as announced in the introduction, simplifying the certification process oforigin of renewable production, or the certificate property of carbon offsetting, is an important issue for the future.
- The development of electric mobility networks: blockchain can contribute to the development of electric mobility, for example by promoting the establishment of payments and the completion of transactions. Sharing between individuals could be based on a blockchain solution to secure transactions, making a form of circular economy possible.
The Oslo 2 Rome project: a concrete example in application
In particular, we can mention the Oslo 2 Rome project, which corresponds to the concrete application of blockchain technology in the world of energy. Starting in 2017, the group EDF has invested in blockchain with the Oslo2Rome project, which constitutes A charging roaming solution for electric vehicles.
In conclusion, we could say, in light of these explanations, that the marriage between these new technologies and the energy sector was initially difficult. Then, as innovations and processes evolve, this relationship can evolve towards a more sustainable and virtuous model for the planet.
It remains to be seen whether this technology will mature at the same time as the way policymakers look at this technology evolves. And if the evolutions of energy mix, which are at the heart of this problem, can also help to “green” cryptocurrency production and other uses of Blockchain in the years to come.
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The answers to your questions
Pourquoi le mécanisme de capacité a-t-il été créé ?
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Instauré en 2017, ce dispositif répond à un enjeu de sécurité nationale.
L'électricité ne se stockant pas à grande échelle, le réseau doit être capable de répondre instantanément à la demande, même lors des pics de froid hivernaux. Le mécanisme incite financièrement les producteurs à maintenir leurs centrales disponibles et les entreprises à réduire leur consommation (effacement) lors de ces périodes critiques.
Which taxes are particularly relevant for farms?
Farms are subject to taxes such as TICFE or TICGN. Sirenergies verifies their application, identifies cases of exemption and accompanies the procedures to reduce the tax burden.
What is the Multiannual Energy Programming (PPE)?
La Multiannual Energy Programming (PPE) is the strategic management tool for France's energy policy. Established by the 2015 law on energy transition for green growth (LTECV), it serves as a compass for the State, communities and businesses.
Concretely, the PPE sets the priorities for action of the public authorities for the management of all forms of energy on the national territory. It covers a period of ten years, divided into two periods of five years, and must be revised periodically to adapt to technological and economic developments.
It deals with major topics such as:
- Security of supply.
- Improving energy efficiency and reducing consumption.
- The development of renewable and recovered energies.
- The electrical production strategy (nuclear, thermal, etc.).
- The balanced development of networks and storage.
It is crucial not to confuse it with National Low Carbon Strategy (SNBC). While SNBC sets carbon budgets (the ceilings for greenhouse gas emissions by sector), the PPE determines the technical and energy resources to achieve them.
What taxes are particularly relevant to manufacturers?
The industry is concerned by TICFE, TICGN and other contributions that may represent an important part of invoices. Sirenergies identifies cases of exemption and accompanies the procedures to benefit from them.
How do I read an electricity or gas bill?
One invoice consists of several elements: consumption, supplier share, taxes and contributions. The analysis of each line makes it possible to identify possible errors and to check the consistency with the signed contract.
What are the electricity offers offered by bellenergie Business?
The range E @sy is available in four pricing structures to adapt to each risk profile:
- E @sy Fixed: 100% budget visibility without variation.
- E @sy Click: Smoothed price thanks to staggered purchases on the markets.
- E @sy Block + Spot: A mix between a secure base and a portion indexed to daily prices.
- E @sy Sport: A 100% dynamic offer to take advantage of downside opportunities in real time.
How do I get a tax exemption?
Some businesses may obtain a partial or total exemption from the TICFE or the TICGN, depending on their activity and energy intensity. The support of an expert makes it possible to identify the eligibility criteria and to put together the file.
How to optimize the taxes and contributions of a community?
Communities are subject to taxes such as TICFE or TICGN. Sirenergies analyzes invoices, identifies exemption possibilities and fixes possible errors to reduce the tax burden.
Pourquoi le kVA est-il crucial pour les entreprises ?
Parce que la puissance souscrite en kVA détermine le prix de l'abonnement et que tout dépassement peut entraîner des surcoûts importants.
Qu'est-ce que le dispositif VNU qui remplace l'ARENH en 2026 ?
La Vente de Nucléaire Universelle (VNU) est le nouveau mécanisme de régulation des prix de l'électricité en France. Contrairement à l'ARENH, il ne s'agit plus d'un volume fixe à prix réduit, mais d'une redistribution financière des revenus excédentaires d'EDF aux consommateurs, basée sur les prix de marché et les coûts de production du nucléaire historique.
Pourquoi le seuil de 78 €/MWh est-il critiqué par les experts ?
Ce seuil est jugé élevé par rapport aux prévisions actuelles du marché. Si le prix de l'électricité reste en dessous de 78 €/MWh, les entreprises ne bénéficieront d'aucune redistribution. Cela signifie que la protection promise par la réforme pourrait être inexistante dans un marché baissier, d'où l'importance de stratégies de sourcing agiles et d'outils de monitoring comme Pilott.
What are the main taxes applicable?
Among the taxes include TICFE, TICGN, CTA, CJA and TURPE. They represent a significant part of the bill and vary according to consumption profiles. Understanding them well is essential to optimize costs.
L'IA remplace-t-elle les analystes en énergie ?
Non. L'IA traite la donnée (data processing), mais l'analyste apporte la compréhension du contexte (market sentiment) et la prise de décision stratégique.
Mon entreprise peut-elle tirer profit des nouvelles Heures Creuses (11h-17h)?
Absolument. La réforme des heures creuses vise à absorber la surproduction solaire en milieu de journée. Les créneaux d'heures creuses se déplacent progressivement vers la plage 11h00 – 17h00, notamment en été. C'est une opportunité majeure pour les sites industriels ou tertiaires capables de flexibilité.
Conseil stratégique :
- Pilotage de la charge : Si vous avez des processus énergivores (fours, broyeurs, recharge de flotte de véhicules électriques, production de froid), déplacez leur fonctionnement sur la pause méridienne. L'électricité y sera moins chère et moins carbonée.
- Autoconsommation : C'est le moment idéal pour coupler cette tarification avec une installation photovoltaïque en toiture ou en ombrière de parking. Vous effacez votre consommation réseau au moment où le tarif serait le plus avantageux, ou vous profitez des prix bas du réseau si votre production ne suffit pas.
What is the main objective of the Multiannual Energy 3 Programming?
The central objective of PPE 3 is to engage France towards carbon neutrality by 2050 by breaking the country's historical dependence on fossil fuels.
Today, approximately 60% of final energy consumption in France still relies on imported oil and natural gas. PPE 3 aims to radically reverse this trend by setting an ambitious target: to reach 60% of carbon-free energies in final consumption by 2030.
To achieve this, PPE 3 pursues three major sub-objectives:
- Massive decarbonization: Replace fossil fuels with low-carbon electricity or renewable heat in industry, transport and buildings.
- Energy sovereignty: Reduce the national energy bill (around 60 billion euros per year) and get rid of the volatility of the global gas and oil markets.
- Economic competitiveness: Guarantee businesses and households access to stable, abundant and predictable energy at a predictable cost, disconnected from geopolitical crises.
Quel est le nouveau record 2025 d'exportation d'électricité de la France ?
En 2025, la France a atteint un solde exportateur net de 92,3 TWh, battant le précédent record de 2024 (89 TWh).
L'hydroélectricité est-elle une énergie "propre" ?
Oui, elle est considérée comme une énergie renouvelable à faibles émissions de gaz à effet de serre.
De plus, l'eau ne subit aucune transformation chimique durant le cycle de production et réintègre son milieu naturel en aval.
Cependant, la construction de barrages nécessite des mesures pour protéger les écosystèmes (débit minimum, passes à poissons).
Why launch an energy tender?
Un appel d’offres permet de mettre en concurrence plusieurs fournisseurs d’électricité et de gaz afin d’obtenir des conditions contractuelles optimisées. C’est une démarche transparente qui permet de choisir l’offre la plus adaptée aux besoins budgétaires et techniques de l’organisation.
What is the difference between €/MWh and kWh?
The €/MWh is a price unit used in wholesale markets, while kWh is the unit visible on your bills.
What are the customer reviews on bellenergie Business's customer service?
In 2025, the supplier had a NPS (Net Promoter Score) of +16 and a note of 4,17/5.
Satisfaction is based on a “zero solicitation” model and 100% in-house customer service in Toulon, guaranteeing proximity and responsiveness that cannot be found with major historical suppliers.
How to properly define your subscribed power?
The subscribed power must be calculated according to the consumption profile and uses (heating, industrial processes, tertiary equipment). One fine analysis makes it possible to ensure the adequacy between real need and contract.
Quel est l'impact de ces exportations sur le prix de l'électricité pour les entreprises ?
L'abondance de production française tire les prix du marché de gros vers le bas.
En vertu du mécanisme de l'Ordre de Mérite (Merit Order), les centrales les moins coûteuses (nucléaire, renouvelables) couvrent la demande plus souvent, évinçant les centrales à gaz ou charbon plus onéreuses.
Cela multiplie les épisodes de prix bas, voire négatifs, sur le marché spot.
What is energy sourcing?
Sourcing consists in identifying and analysing the offers of several electricity and gas suppliers. This approach makes it possible to obtain contracts adapted to the consumption profile and budgetary constraints of the company.
What are the challenges for tertiary companies?
Tertiary companies must manage their energy costs while guaranteeing the comfort of users (offices, shops, services). Consumption is often linked to heating, air conditioning and lighting, which requires precise monitoring to avoid budgetary excesses.
Quel sera l'impact réel du VNU sur ma facture d'électricité professionnelle ?
L'impact dépendra des prix de marché. Le mécanisme prévoit une redistribution si les prix dépassent 78 €/MWh. Cependant, si les cours restent bas (actuellement autour de 60 €/MWh), le dispositif ne s'activera pas. La facture sera alors indexée à 100% sur les prix de marché, rendant le choix du fournisseur et du moment d'achat critiques.
What are the PP1 and PP2 alert days?
These are signals sent by RTE during periods of tension on the electrical network. The Sirenergies tool informs you in real time to anticipate your uses.
Pourquoi mon contrat est-il en kVA et ma consommation en kWh ?
Le kVA mesure la capacité maximale que votre compteur peut supporter à un instant T, tandis que le kWh mesure la quantité d'énergie consommée sur une durée.
Is Bellenergie Business electricity really green?
Yes. The supplier guarantees an offer 100% renewable via the official Guarantees of Origin (GO) mechanism.
For the most demanding companies, the offer GREENVOLT+ ensures very low carbon intensity electricity, sourced exclusively from independent French producers (hydraulic, wind, solar).
Comment l'eau est-elle transformée en électricité ?
Le processus repose sur l'utilisation de la force de l'eau (énergie cinétique) issue des courants, des chutes d'eau ou des dénivelés. Le fonctionnement suit trois étapes clés :
- Le barrage retient l'eau et l'oriente vers des conduites.
- La pression de l'eau fait tourner une turbine, créant de l'énergie mécanique.
- Une génératrice (alternateur) transforme cette énergie mécanique en électricité, laquelle est ensuite adaptée par un transformateur pour le réseau
Quelle est la différence entre un prix Forward et un prix Spot ?
Le prix Forward est fixé à l'avance (sécurité budgétaire), tandis que le prix Spot varie heure par heure selon le marché (opportunité mais risque élevé).
Quelle est la différence concrète entre le transport et la distribution d'électricité ?
Le transport (RTE) correspond aux "autoroutes" de l’électricité. Il s’agit de transporter de très grandes quantités d'énergie sur de longues distances, depuis les centrales de production (nucléaires, barrages, parcs éoliens offshore) vers les régions de consommation.
La distribution (Enedis) s'apparente aux "routes départementales" et aux rues. Elle récupère l'électricité à la sortie du réseau de transport pour la livrer directement chez le client final, en abaissant la tension pour qu'elle soit utilisable par vos appareils.
What are the consequences of overpowering?
Exceeding capacity leads to financial penalties and can impact the size of the contract. Adjust the correctly subscribed power makes it possible to avoid these additional costs.
How to optimize taxes and contributions?
Tertiary companies are concerned by taxes such as TICFE or TICGN. Sirenergies checks the accuracy of invoices, identifies possible exemptions, and helps correct errors to sustainably reduce costs.
Qu'est-ce qui remplace l'ARENH depuis le 1er janvier 2026 ?
Le dispositif ARENH a laissé place au VNU (Versement Nucléaire Universel).
Ce changement structurel expose davantage les entreprises aux prix de gros, rendant la gestion des risques plus complexe qu'auparavant.
Il devient alors indispensable de définir une stratégie d'achat d'électricité avec Sirenergies pour lisser l'impact de la volatilité des marchés sur votre budget.
Fin de l'ARENH au 31 décembre 2025 : comment sécuriser mon budget énergie pour 2026?
La fin de l'ARENH (Accès Régulé à l'Électricité Nucléaire Historique) marque l'arrêt de la fourniture d'électricité à prix fixe garanti (42 €/MWh).
Dès le 1er janvier 2026, les entreprises sont exposées aux prix de marché, mais deux nouveaux mécanismes de régulation prennent le relais, bien que leur logique soit différente :
- Le Versement Nucléaire Universel (VNU) : Ce n'est pas un tarif d'achat, mais un mécanisme de redistribution a posteriori. Si les prix de marché de l'électricité nucléaire dépassent un certain seuil (environ 78 €/MWh selon les estimations pour 2026), EDF reversera 50 % des revenus excédentaires aux consommateurs. Attention : Si les prix de marché restent modérés (sous les 78 €/MWh), le VNU ne se déclenche pas. Il agit comme une assurance contre les flambées extrêmes, pas comme un tarif bas garanti.
- Les CAPN (Contrats d'Allocation de Production Nucléaire) : Réservés aux industriels électro-intensifs, ces contrats de long terme (10-15 ans) permettent de réserver une part de la production nucléaire en échange d'une participation aux coûts du parc. Ils offrent une visibilité sur le long terme pour 50 à 70 % des volumes consommés.
Conseil stratégique : Ne comptez pas sur le VNU pour réduire votre facture en 2026 si les marchés restent stables. Auditez vos contrats dès maintenant pour intégrer une part de prix fixe ou explorer des "Power Purchase Agreements" (PPA) pour sécuriser vos coûts sur le long terme.
Quel est l'impact réel de la rénovation de l'éclairage public ?
C'est le levier le plus rapide pour obtenir des résultats visibles. L'éclairage représente environ 40 % de la consommation d'électricité d'une commune.
Passer au LED avec pilotage intelligent permet de réduire la facture de 50 à 80 %, avec un retour sur investissement (ROI) rapide, souvent estimé à 2 ou 3 ans.
Pourquoi l'IA ne peut-elle pas prédire le prix de l'énergie avec exactitude ?
Car les marchés dépendent de facteurs exogènes imprévisibles (géopolitique, météo soudaine, politique) que les modèles basés sur l'historique ne peuvent pas anticiper, tout comme on ne prédit pas le Loto.
Qu'est-ce que le cosinus phi
C'est l'indicateur d'efficacité d'un appareil électrique ; il représente le ratio entre la puissance active (utile) et la puissance apparente (totale).
What is the point of following Spot & Forward prices?
This makes it possible to choose the right time to contract, secure your budgets and anticipate increases.
Quels sont les cas d'usage concrets des différents types d'IA pour un acheteur d'énergie ?
Chaque modèle d'IA répond à un besoin spécifique du cycle d'achat :
- L’IA générative sert d'assistant de recherche pour synthétiser en quelques minutes des rapports de marché massifs (veille stratégique).
- L’IA déterministe est l'outil de la fiabilité : elle est indispensable pour le forecast (prévision de consommation) car ses calculs sont mathématiques et reproductibles.
- L’IA probabiliste est dédiée à la gestion des risques : elle simule des scénarios (ex: météo, stocks) pour quantifier l'incertitude sur les budgets futurs.
L'expertise humaine reste néanmoins indispensable.
Pourquoi la France a-t-elle exporté un volume record d'électricité en 2025 ?
Ce record de 92,3 TWh s'explique par la conjonction de trois facteurs :
- Le redressement du parc nucléaire : Après les problèmes de corrosion sous contrainte de 2022, la production nucléaire a retrouvé une forte disponibilité (373 TWh).
- L'essor des renouvelables : Une capacité installée en hausse (solaire et éolien) et une production hydraulique solide.
- Une consommation intérieure atone : La demande française reste inférieure de 6 % à la moyenne historique, créant un surplus massif disponible pour nos voisins.
The answers to your questions
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