A driving force in Norwegian industry

The Agder region has been a driving force in Norway’s industrial and economic development for over a century. With its strategic location along the coast, abundant natural resources, and long tradition in shipbuilding, hydropower, and mechanical engineering, Agder has laid the foundation for many important industries.

1800

Shipbuilding and Maritime Industry

Agder, especially Arendal and Grimstad, has a long history as a center for shipbuilding and seafaring. In the 19th century, Arendal was one of the leading cities in Norway for shipbuilding, and the city became a global trading center.

1900

Hydropower and industrial development

Arendals Fossekompani was established in 1896 by local investors with the aim of harnessing the power of the waterfalls in the Arendal watercourse for electricity production. The company experienced significant growth in 1907 when industrial pioneer Sam Eyde joined. He accelerated the development of the power plants at Bøylefoss and Flaten, laying the foundation for extensive industrial development based on hydropower.

This industrial initiative helped create substantial employment opportunities and economic growth in a region that had previously been marked by a decline in shipbuilding and maritime activities. Arendals Fossekompani thus played a pivotal role in revitalizing the region and establishing it as an important player in Norwegian industrial history.

Sam Eyde

Where there's a will, there's a way.

Sam Eyde was born in Agder in 1866. He became a prominent national industrial pioneer, founding major industrial companies such as Hydro and Elkem. To harness the power from the Bøylefoss power plant, he established Norway’s largest aluminum plant and a factory for the production of silicon carbide.

2000

International competitiveness

Through Agder and its hydropower-based industry, Norway became a global player in the production of aluminum, and the Agder region played an important role in making the country a leading producer in Europe.

2024

Renewable energy and new technology

Agder is today a leading region in renewable energy, especially hydropower, and plays an important role in the development of new technologies. With the ongoing focus on modern industry, Agder continues to play a key role in Norway’s transition to a sustainable economy.

Fremtiden

A hub for industry and development

Agder is today a leading region in renewable energy, especially Bøylestad energy park represents an investment in the future of the Agder region and Froland, with the potential to create new jobs and promote industry and technology. The energy park will help strengthen Froland’s role in the development of sustainable solutions and modern technology in the region.