The earliest use of electric energy in China was in the fifth year of Guangxu reign (1878). At that time, the British colonialists in Shanghai specially brought a small engine generator to welcome the President of the United States to pass by Shanghai, and spent two nights on the Bund in Shanghai from August 17 to June 18, the fifth year of Guangxu in Qing Dynasty (1879).
In the eighth year of Guangxu in Qing Dynasty (1882), on July 26th, the Zhapu Road Electric Light Factory, which was owned by Shanghai Electro-optical Company and operated by British businessmen, started to generate electricity, which was the first power plant in China. In the sixth year after this power plant came into power, Tianjin began to run electricity and took the lead in using electricity in North China. At that time, the use of electric light was still in the primary stage, and the technology and equipment were relatively simple, but this did not affect the important role of electric light in people's lives.
The significance of using electric light:
1. Lighting: The primary function of electric lamps is to provide lighting, so that people can see objects clearly at night or in poor light. It enables us to continue our activities and work, whether at home, in the office or in public places.
2. Enhance safety: Electric lights provide better safety, so that people can see the surrounding environment clearly and reduce accidents. Adequate lighting in roads, stations, public places and other places can improve people's sense of security and reduce the occurrence of crimes.
3. Promote social interaction and communication: Electric lights make social activities at night more convenient, and people can get together to participate in entertainment activities at night to enhance interpersonal relationships and communication. In addition, electric lights can also exchange information and conduct communication and media activities at night more conveniently.
Reference to the above content: Baidu Encyclopedia-Shanghai