Bergerac’s Old Hydraulic Power Station

The former hydroelectric plant of Bergerac, an industrial vestige

Behind a gate, on the Rue des Fontaines, you glimpse the vestiges of the former hydroelectric plant of Bergerac. Recently brought to light, this site testifies to the industrial past of the city. The Bergerac audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this little-known page of local history, linked to the beginnings of electricity.

An electric plant from 1892

The first hydroelectric plant of Bergerac operated from 1892 until around 1946. This plant produced electricity by harnessing hydraulic energy, illustrating the arrival of electricity in the city. Its vestiges were discovered in 2007, during development works on the Rue des Fontaines, then highlighted. They recall a forgotten part of the industrial past of Bergerac.

What to see

Here you observe, behind a gate, the highlighted vestiges of the former plant, witnesses of the beginnings of electricity production in Bergerac. The site, discreet but instructive, sheds light on an often-forgotten aspect of the history of the city. It is a stop for those curious about industrial heritage, during a walk in the centre.

Practical information

The vestiges of the former hydroelectric plant lie on the Rue des Fontaines, in the centre of Bergerac, reachable on foot. The site is discovered from the public space, behind a gate, and is freely seen from the outside. On the level, it fits into a walk in the historic centre.

When did the Bergerac hydroelectric plant operate?

From 1892 until around 1946; it was the first hydroelectric plant of the city, harnessing hydraulic energy.

When were the vestiges of the plant discovered?

In 2007, during development works on the Rue des Fontaines, in Bergerac; they were then highlighted.