Imagine a world where turning the lights on with a flip of a switch wasn’t an option. Before July 4, 1886, that was the reality.
On that day, electric lights illuminated Visalia’s Independence Day celebration for the first time, kicking off a 140-year legacy of innovation that now powers over 15 million people across Southern California.
SCE continues to build on its 140-year legacy of innovation, safely delivering reliable, clean and affordable electricity to millions.
The evolution of electricity in Southern California:
July 4, 1886:
Holt and Knupps — later becoming Visalia Electric Light and Gas Company — use a steam engine to power arc lights so town festivities could commence on the evening of July 4, 1886.
1896-1899:
Southern California Edison is born through the merging of numerous local power companies, driving innovation with the powering of electric trolley cars, building hydroelectric facilities and adopting three-wire conduit technology to minimize power line clutter.
1902-1950:
SCE brings transmission lines to Los Angeles and neighboring communities. Steam, electric and hydroelectric facilities help strengthen California's agricultural industry.
1968-1984:
Three nuclear units are built at the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station, generating roughly 4,850 megawatts of power.
1980:
SCE announces a commitment to renewable and alternative power, using wind, solar, geothermal, fuel cells, hydroelectricity and combined heat and power.
1989-1996:
SCEcorp — SCE's parent company — is renamed Edison International and expands globally with the opening of its subsidiary, Edison Mission Energy, in London. Operations later expanded to Australia.
2000-2016:
SCE increases rooftop solar generation for residents, invests in and expands wind power generation infrastructure, and upgrades 5 million meters with smart meter technology.
2017:
SCE launches "Energy for What's Ahead,” placing clean power, electrification and wildfire mitigation as the top priorities.
2018-2026:
SCE reimagines the grid to reduce greenhouse gases, leads the electrification of transportation infrastructure, increases reliability and addresses climate risks — all in support of California's goal to reach of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045 while also meeting rising demand for electricity.
For more information on SCE’s history, click here.
