Heavy Current Electricity in the United Kingdom. History and development

Notes:

Concise history written by a retired chairman of the Central Electricity Generating Board on the basis of original research. Tells the history of electricity generation in the UK, in particular its failings from the mid 19th century after early leadership, and resulting backwardness relative to the industries of other countries most notable in 20th century. Also addresses electrical engineering industry. Has chapters: 1] 'Pre-history' - years of engineering leadership / scientist becomes a pioneer / electricity put to work; 2] 'Battle between the systems' - Playfair Committee / merits and shortcomings of electric light and the decision of The Committee / Edison and Swan change the system / Major Marindin fails to arbitrate; 3] 'Battle between the systems' - Grosvenor Gallery and Deptford / Ferranti - an assessment / a multiplicity of small systems / development - thoughtless of the environment / Parsons wins the battle for alternating current / an assessment of British performance to 1900; 4] 'Attempts to remove the legislative shackles' - First World War and Williamson Committee / Old Willie Weir points the way / John Nicol Dunlop and the First World Energy Conference; 5] 'Today's British electricity industry' - Edison's drive and foresight / build up of the British manufacturing industry / failure of the attempt to integrate the manufacturing industry / Central Electricity Board - its strengths and weaknesses / government direction in the Second World War and after; 6] 'Nationalisation' - frightening difficulties of the new Board / shackles removed