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Sep 29, 1031
Japan Recycles Paper
Japan uses waste paper to create new paper. -
Sir Isaac Newton Discovers Generator
"Sir Isaac Newton builds a generator consisting of a rotating glass sphere." The design is later improved with a metal chain intended to capture electricity by friction. -
William Symington Develops "Practical Steamboat"
In 1801, William Symington, a British engineer, created a "practical steamboat" for towing barges on the Forth and Clyde Canal in Scotland. He demonstrated his boat on a run from New York City to Albany on the Hudson River in 1805. -
Pierre Currie Discovers Piezoelectric Effect
In 1880, Pierre Currie discovered the piezoelectric effect, which occurs when electricity is produced as a result of pressure. -
Nikola Tesla Develops "Alternate Current" Generator
In 1890, Nikola Tesla was the first to create an "alternate current" or AC generator, which allows electricity to be transmitted across long distances. -
First Off-Shore Wells
In 1900, the first off-shore oil wells are drilled. -
First Commercial Use of Geothermal Energy
In 1930, the first commercial use of geothermal energy took place in Boise, Idaho. The operation included a 1000-foot well that was drilled in 1926. The first "down hole heat exchanger" used to heat the well was created by Charlie Leib in Klamath Falls. -
First Wind Turbine
In 1941, Palmer Cosslet Putnam invented the very first wind turbine in Grandpa's Knob, Vermont. The "tip-to-tip" diameter was 175 feet. It continued to supply electricity to the area until it lost a blade and had to be shut down in 1945. -
UNOCAL Builds First Geothermal Plant
UNOCAL builds the country's first geothermal plant in Brawley, California. -
General Motor Corps. Introduces Electric Car
In 1990, General Motor Corps. introduces an electric car at the Greate LA Auto Show.
