Switch-On of Pearl Street Station
- When
- 1882-09-04
- Where
- Pearl Street Station
Edison's Pearl Street Station was switched on in New York City on September 4, 1882, providing 110 volts DC to an initial load of 400 lamps for 82 customers.
On September 4, 1882, in Pearl Street, New York City, the electrical power distribution system of Edison's 600 kW cogeneration steam-powered generating station was switched on, providing 110 volts direct current. The station began generating electricity that day, serving an initial load of 400 lamps to 82 customers. Edison also turned on the electrical lighting system to supply the company's 946 customers in Manhattan. There was little press coverage, though the Boston Globe remarked that Edison had had an 'opening night,' and that his aim was to open night until it shall be as day.
Sources
- Thomas Edison Wikipedia, revision of 2026-10-04
- Pearl Street Station Wikipedia, revision of 2026-07-26
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