Swiss canton of Bern approves study on Bitcoin mining feasibility

The Swiss canton of Bern’s parliament has approved a motion to commission a report on Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC) mining feasibility.

The motion, proposed by the Bitcoin Parliamentary Group, passed with 85 votes in favor and 46 against.

This development is viewed as a victory by proponents, despite opposition from the canton’s executive authority, the Government Council.

The report will explore the potential benefits of Bitcoin mining in Bern, including sourcing excess energy, collaborating with Swiss Bitcoin miners, and stabilising the electricity grid.

The Bitcoin Parliamentary Group drew inspiration from the U.S. state of Texas, where Bitcoin mining has been integrated into energy policy to promote renewable energy and support the grid.

“Even though the debate was heavily influenced by classic FUD arguments and missed the point, the proposal ultimately found a clear majority. This result is an expression of the fact that the narrative on Bitcoin is changing,” remarked Samuel Kullmann, a member of Bern’s parliament, on X (formerly Twitter).

Despite the parliamentary approval, the Government Council recommended against the proposal.

The council argued that Bern’s energy usage is tied to international, not local, considerations, as the region exports energy.

It also cited the growing energy demands of other data centers, advancing energy storage technology, and Bitcoin’s volatile market trends as reasons for opposition.

Furthermore, Bitcoin is not recognised as legal tender and does not fall under the Swiss National Bank’s jurisdiction.

Switzerland has long been considered a pro-crypto nation.

Cities like Zug, home to the Ethereum Foundation, and Lugano, which hosts the Plan B Forum, highlight the country’s crypto-friendly environment.

This latest move by Bern reflects ongoing efforts to evaluate the role of cryptocurrency within Switzerland’s broader energy and economic frameworks.

At the time of reporting, the Bitcoin price was $96,337.34.