History of industry | Office de tourisme Belledonne Chartreuse, bienvenue dans la vallée du Grésivaudan.

The industrial revolution initiated by Aristide Bergès

At the end of the 19th century, the Grésivaudan valley, which had long been based on a flourishing agricultural economy, underwent a radical change. This major turning point had its roots in the arrival of Aristide Bergès. A visionary and pioneer, this businessman marked a decisive turning point by introducing a new era of industrial prosperity to this picturesque region. His ambition and foresight laid the foundations for the valley’s industrial development, triggering a wave of unprecedented economic transformation.

The rise of hydroelectricity

Aristide Bergès’ interest in harnessing hydraulic power was revolutionary. With the acquisition and installation of Voelter defibers, he harnessed the valley’s waterfalls in an innovative way. This technological breakthrough gave rise to three major paper mills, including the Lancey mill, which played a decisive role in the region’s industrial development. The mill quickly became the symbol of an unprecedented industrial revolution, fostering the emergence of new economic and technological opportunities.

The transition from paper to high-tech

The impetus of the modern paper mill in the valley played a major role in the emergence of centers of educational excellence such as the French paper mill school. This cradle of knowledge has served as a foundation for electrical engineering institutes and, more recently, the University of Grenoble. It was against this backdrop that the valley underwent a veritable intellectual revolution, giving rise to cutting-edge scientific fields such as atomic research, nanotechnology and microtechnology.

Research and development hubs

Development efforts have spawned innovative research clusters, the most emblematic of which is Inovallée, a renowned technology park located in Meylan and Montbonnot-Saint-Martin. Today, this park is home to over 320 companies, including more than 140 start-ups, contributing to the creation of more than 10,500 jobs. This concentration of companies and research institutes is the beating heart of innovation and research, propelling the Grésivaudan Valley to the status of a center of technological excellence.

Bernin and Crolles, spearheads of high-tech industry

Bernin and Crolles are home to renowned companies such as ST Microelectronics and Soitec. These companies enjoy an international reputation in the manufacture of advanced semiconductors and electronic chips. Their dynamic and innovative presence is an essential element in the valley’s technological influence.

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Energy distribution by ESDB

Énergie Service de Belledonne (ESDB) is a key player in energy distribution in the Grésivaudan valley. This entity ensures the region’s energy supply through the operation of several thermal, hydraulic and wood-fired power plants. This commitment to sustainable, diversified energy supply reflects the valley’s determination to adapt to energy needs while favoring environmentally-friendly solutions.

This industrial dynamic has continued to evolve, shaping the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region into France’s leading industrial region, generating 500,000 industrial jobs.