Hydroelectric Power History

Hydroelectric power harnesses energy from flowing water, crucial in early civilizations for milling grains and irrigation. The first hydroelectric plant began operating in 1882 on the Fox River in Appleton, Wisconsin, generating electricity for local homes. This marked a shift towards using water resources for electrical power significantly during the industrial revolution. As populations grew, demand for renewable energy increased, making hydroelectricity a key player in sustainable energy solutions. Today, it remains one of the most important renewable energy sources globally, contributing to efforts to combat climate change and provide reliable electricity.