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First form of electricity.
Benjamin Franklin prove that lightning is a form of electricity. -
First electric light bulb and generator.
Thomas Edison successfully demonstrates the electric light bulb and generator. -
first iteration of the modern electricity industry
Edison launches the first iteration of the modern electricity industry with the Pearl Street station, the first modern electricity generating station. -
Developed the hydroelectric project
Development begins on the Niagara Falls hydroelectric project, a massive plant designed to transmit power to Buffalo, NY, more than 20 miles away -
Natural monopoly
Insull suggests that the utility industry is a natural monopoly, meaning that it is an industry in which having a sole provider serves the common good. -
Power companies
Wisconsin enacts the first law designed to regulate power companies. The law creates a commission to set rates for private utilities. -
The Public Utility Holding Company
PUHCA establishes an absolute obligation to serve all consumers as quid-pro-quo for a guaranteed rate of return to each utility monopoly. -
Beginning of household appliances
These are the boom year of the electric power industry. Economies of scale make electric power affordable and a host of new household appliances make it indispensable. -
Fuel used to generate electricity
Until now, the electric power industry has become increasingly efficient in fuel consumption -
President Dwight D. Eisenhower
He makes his “Atoms for Peace” speech before the United Nations, advocating for the peaceful use of nuclear power. -
The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries
OPEC launches an oil embargo to protest U.S. Middle East policy. This leads to a dramatic increase in not only the cost of oil but also of electricity-generating fuels, including coal. -
Energy Policy Act
Congress passes the Energy Policy Act of 2005. The act includes repeal of PUHCA, which supporters claim will lead to greater investment in utilities. -
Electricity consumer increased
Thousands of electricity consumers in New York lose power as the system struggles and ultimately fails to keep up with demand triggered by summer heat.
