Key Historical Energy Events (http://alternativeenergy.procon.org/view.timeline.php?timelineID=000015)
By camrichmond
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The Niagra Falls hydropower station opened. It provided electricity to the local area. A year later, the station sent electric power to places over 20 miles away.
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The first geothermal plant is built in San Francisco. John D. Grant was able to power 250 kilowatts with the plant. It is able to power his lights in his resort.
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The Hoover Dam was completed in 1935, becoming the largest hydroelectric producer in the world.
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On December 20, 1951, the first nuclear power reactor generated electricity in Idaho. It produced a little amount of energy,but was a stepping stone in what nuclear reactors would become.
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The first solar cells were invented that were capable of using the sun's energy. The solar cells converted the sunlight into electricity.
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Congress passed the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978. It required utilities to purchase electricity from independent power producers. The Act stimulated growth of small hydro plants to help meet the Nation's energy needs.
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In Pennyslyvania, a nuclear reactor in the Three Mile Island Nuclear Power Plant overheated and starte to melt down.
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In December of 1980, the world's first wind farm was built in New Hampshire. It consisted of 20 turbines with 30 kilowatts each. It was a failure because the turbines frequently broke.
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The Exxon Valdez struck the Bligh Reeg on March 24, 1989. Over 11 million gallons of crude oil split into the waters. It became the largest oil spill to that date.
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General Motors released the first electric car to the public. The car doesn't release any emmisions.
