Long Wires Carry Power: The Grid Is Born
The first long-distance transmission of electrical power for commercial use occurred on June 3, 1889, when a generator at Willamette Falls in Oregon City sent electricity 14 miles to Portland via overhead lines. The system used single-phase alternating current at 4,000 volts, stepping it down for distribution. This was one of several early demonstrations that proved alternating current could transmit power over practical distances, a concept Thomas Edison had vehemently opposed in favor of his direct current system. The success of the Willamette Falls transmission, combined with the 1891 Frankfurt demonstration and the 1893 Niagara Falls project, settled the "War of Currents" in favor of AC. Portland rapidly expanded its electrical grid, and the city's access to cheap hydroelectric power fueled its industrial growth through the early 20th century.
June 3, 1889
137 years ago
Key Figures & Places
What Else Happened on June 3
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