Power transmission in Northern California

THE HISTORY of power transmission in northern and central California and the interconnection of hydroelectric and steam-electric plants dates back to just before the turn of the century. Development of water power was given impetus by the earlier uses of water in mining operations. The availability of petroleum fuels encouraged construction of steam plants in areas lacking in hydro power, or where it was needed for purposes of assuring the power supply in low water periods, or in case of interruption of long transmission circuits.