First U.S. solar cell

Historical era

Wood economy (1776–1884)

Wood was the largest U.S. energy source for heating, cooking, and early industry until coal surpassed it in the late 1800s.

Nearby on the timeline

• 1882 Appleton — first U.S. hydro plant selling to the public
• 1882 Pearl Street Station — first U.S. commercial central station
• 1885 Coal becomes largest U.S. energy source

Sources

• EIA Energy Kids — Solar thermal