James Francis

James Francis was a 19th-century American inventor and engineer, best known for developing the Francis turbine, a type of water turbine used to generate electricity. This innovative design efficiently converts the energy of moving water into mechanical power, making it foundational for hydroelectric power plants. His work helped advance the use of water turbines in large-scale energy production, contributing significantly to the development of renewable energy sources. Francis's contributions have had a lasting impact on hydroelectric engineering, making him a key figure in the evolution of sustainable energy technology.