Alternative Energy Events

By GIsForGoat
  • 2000 BCE

    Chinese First to Use Coal as an Energy Source

    Chinese people begin to use coal to heat and power their homes due to an increasing wood shortage somewhere between 2000 BC to 1499.
  • 200 BCE

    Europeans Harness Water Energy to Power Mills

    In Europe, harnessing water is a new skill. Water energy is used to power machines such as mills, furnaces, and other industrial processes. This began somewhere in 200 BC.
  • 50

    Chinese First to Refine Oil for Use as an Energy Source

    In China, people have learned how to refine oil in order to make new energy sources. These oil byproducts and energy sources are still found today. This was developed somewhere in the First Century.

  • Dutch Build Windmills for Multiple Uses

    Over time, mills gain new purposes, uses, and new energy sources, not only powered by water. They could now help with product manufacturing, more efficient grain-crushing, and wood-cutting. This happened in the 1590s.

  • Coal Begins to Displace Use of Other Energies

    Coal begins to become a very popular energy source, as it was plentiful and easy to use. Water, wood, wind, and oil were being steadily replaced by oil in modernizing society. This happened in the 1700s.

  • First Steam Engine Developed in England to Pump Water Out of Coal Mines

    During this time, a brand-new machine was invented: the steam engine. This made industrialization much more efficient and easy. People quickly realized this machine's potential and it began to replace workers in more petty tasks, such as pumping water. This happened in 1712.

  • First Natural Gas Well in US Is Drilled

    Much later, people were beginning to realize the potential of Natural Gas. Suddenly, everyone wanted some, and drills were being set up. Natural Gas was a brand-new energy source that would just add to the list of ever-growing energy sources that would help people live better lives.

  • First Coal Powered Iron Forges Are Developed in New England

    Before coal-powered forges, most were powered by wood. This was much less efficient, as the wood burned quickly and without as much strength. This meant that the wood was constantly replaced without much effect. Coal, however, burned for much longer and with more strength. This greatly increased forge efficiency. This happened in the 1830s.