Discovery of Static Electricity
Thales of Miletus discovered that rubbing amber with fur could attract small objects, marking one of the earliest observations of static electricity.
600 BC
1600
William Gilbert's De Magnete
William Gilbert published "De Magnete," where he coined the term "electricus" to describe materials that attract small objects after being rubbed.
1752
Benjamin Franklin's Kite Experiment
Benjamin Franklin conducted his famous kite experiment, proving that lightning is a form of electricity and leading to the invention of the lightning rod.
1800
Invention of the Electric Battery
Alessandro Volta invented the voltaic pile, the first chemical battery, providing a steady source of electric current.
1820
Hans Christian Ørsted Discovers Electromagnetism
Hans Christian Ørsted discovered that an electric current creates a magnetic field, laying the groundwork for electromagnetism.
1831
Michael Faraday's Electromagnetic Induction
Michael Faraday discovered electromagnetic induction, demonstrating that a changing magnetic field can produce an electric current.
1879
Thomas Edison's Incandescent Light Bulb
Thomas Edison developed a practical and long-lasting incandescent light bulb, revolutionizing indoor lighting.
1882
First Central Power Station
Thomas Edison opened the first central power station, the Pearl Street Station in New York City, providing electricity to nearby homes and businesses.
1888
Nikola Tesla's Alternating Current (AC) System
Nikola Tesla developed the alternating current (AC) system, which became the standard for electrical power transmission due to its efficiency over long distances.
1895
First Hydroelectric Power Plant at Niagara Falls
The first major hydroelectric power plant was established at Niagara Falls, using Tesla's AC system to transmit electricity over long distances.
1906
Lee De Forest invented the Audion, the first triode vacuum tube, which amplified electrical signals and was crucial for early radio technology.
1920
Development of the National Grid
The concept of a national grid for electricity distribution began to take shape, allowing for more efficient and reliable power delivery across regions.
1947
Invention of the Transistor
John Bardeen, Walter Brattain, and William Shockley invented the transistor, revolutionizing electronics and paving the way for modern computers.
1954
First Nuclear Power Plant
The world's first nuclear power plant began operations in Obninsk, USSR, marking a new era in electricity generation.
1970
Development of Solar Cells
Advancements in photovoltaic technology led to the development of more efficient solar cells, promoting the use of solar energy for electricity generation.
2000
Expansion of Renewable Energy
The 21st century saw significant growth in renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric power, driven by environmental concerns and technological advancements.
2020
Advancements in Energy Storage
Innovations in battery technology and energy storage systems improved the reliability and integration of renewable energy into the power grid.
2024
Smart Grids and IoT Integration
The implementation of smart grids and the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) devices enhanced the efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of electricity distribution systems.
