This article was originally written on July 3, 2023 by Christoph Andreica; updated on September 25th, 2025. 

The United States has long shaped the world of energy. From early experiments with electricity and hydropower to today’s growth in solar, wind, and clean technologies, the country’s energy story is full of breakthroughs and milestones. In this article, we share top 10 facts about USA energy, from its history to today, that highlight how innovation and progress continue to shape the nation’s energy future.

Why the USA?

The story of USA energy is one of constant innovation and transformation. From pioneering breakthroughs to large-scale projects that reshaped global markets, the United States has long been at the forefront of energy progress. These milestones are more than moments in history, they highlight the country’s ongoing potential to drive technological change, expand sustainable solutions, and inspire the future of global energy.

10 lesser known facts about energy in the USA

1. Benjamin Franklin and Electricity

We start off with one of the USA’s most beloved founding fathers, who is often miscredited for discovering electricity. While Benjamin Franklin didn’t discover electricity, his famous kite experiment in 1752 proved that lightning is a form of electricity. This groundbreaking discovery laid the foundation for many of the electrical technologies we use today.

2. First Hydropower Plant

The first hydropower plant in the USA was built on the Fox River in Appleton, Wisconsin, in 1882. This type of small, experimental hydropower plant was however first constructed in England. The first large-scale hydropower plant in the world was later established at Niagara Falls. Harnessing the power of falling water to generate electricity was previously thought impossible at a large scale.

3. Statue of Liberty

In 1886, the Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom and democracy, became the first U.S. lighthouse to use electricity. This technological advancement significantly improved the lighthouse’s visibility and reliability, and turned it into one of the most recognizable American symbols of today. Some argue that without electrification, the landmark would not have been so memorable for the immigrants reaching New York.

4. Brooklyn Bridge

On it’s inauguration, the iconic Brooklyn Bridge was, and still is, a symbol of human ingenuity and resilience. It’s also the first bridge in the USA to be powered by electricity, by being illuminated during nighttime. It had it’s own power station on the Brooklyn side of the river. This innovation enhanced the bridge’s safety and functionality, particularly during nighttime hours.

5. Invention of Electric Cars

While electric cars may seem like a new, cutting edge technology, the concept of electric cars dates back to 1832. It took engineers until 1890 however to build the first successful electric car. Despite their early invention, electric cars have only recently become a viable alternative to gasoline-powered vehicles, thanks to advancements in battery technology. Recent modern cars have improved power storage methods, which enables the electric car to be viable.  

6. The Rapid Growth of U.S. Renewables

Renewable energy in the U.S. has been growing at an unprecedented pace, with 2024 marking another record-breaking year. Solar installations alone added nearly 40 gigawatts of new capacity, bringing total U.S. solar capacity to around 220 GW, enough to supply over 7% of the nation’s electricity. Battery storage nearly doubled to 29 GW, helping to stabilize the grid as renewable energy production fluctuates. Together, renewables and battery storage now account for the majority of new power generation capacity.

7. Wind Turbine Power

A single wind turbine can generate enough electricity to power up to 920 American homes. This fact underscores the potential of wind energy as a clean, renewable and most importantly viable power source for America. Furthermore, the per capita consumption of electricity in America has been going down in the past 20 years. This means that in the future, wind generated electricity will power even more American homes.

8. Houston leads the energy transition

Houston, the world’s energy capital, is leading the transition to cleaner energy. With more than 4,700 energy-related firms, including top oil and gas companies, as well as over 270 clean technology startups, Houston combines expertise in traditional energy with innovation in wind, solar, hydrogen, carbon capture, and geothermal technologies. Initiatives such as the HyVelocity Hub and large-scale urban solar projects are promoting clean energy and generating new job opportunities. Through the use of diverse energy resources, a skilled workforce, and strong industry collaboration, Houston is now leading the way in the global energy transition.

9. Solar Power in California

California leads the nation in solar power generation, producing more electricity from solar energy than all other U.S. states combined. It even produces more than all the solar power generated in the EU. This is largely due to the state’s sunny climate and strong commitment to renewable energy.

10. Alaska’s Microgrids

Alaska is home to over 200 remote microgrids, many of which are powered by renewable energy sources like wind and hydro. These microgrids provide essential electricity to remote communities, demonstrating the versatility and potential of renewable energy systems in remote conditions. These microgrids could pave the way for optimizing current American power grids.

Looking ahead

The history of U.S. energy shows a story of innovation, progress, and adaptation. From early experiments in electricity to today’s growth in renewables and clean technologies, the United States continues to lead the way in shaping the energy landscape. At WTS Energy USA, we support this evolving sector by providing workforce solutions that help energy companies deploy skilled talent quickly and efficiently. As the U.S. energy industry continues to grow and transition, we are ready to help you navigate opportunities and build a sustainable, future-ready workforce.