Chapter 5
The Past, Present, and Future of Energy
Goals
- Describe how the electrical infrastructure of the U.S. initially developed.
- Identify the main reason AC power became more prevalent than DC power.
- List ways that DC power is used now.
CTE Energy & Natural Resources Career Subcluster
This subchapter does not explicitly map to the Energy & Natural Resources career cluster, though it contributes to foundational understanding.
Goals
- Define public utility, monopoly, and natural monopoly.
- List reasons why energy companies are often natural monopolies.
- Describe the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935.
CTE Energy & Natural Resources Career Subcluster
This subchapter does not explicitly map to the Energy & Natural Resources career cluster, though it contributes to foundational understanding.
Activities
Industry Engagement Activity
This activity connects local K-12 educators with industry professionals to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world career demands.
60-90 min.
Varies
Goals
- List some of the major electrical appliances and devices in a modern home and compare how much electricity they consume.
- Describe the Rural Electrification Act and how it impacted Americans in rural areas.
- Discuss how electrification can help limit the amount of carbon released into the atmosphere from electricity generation and use.
CTE Energy & Natural Resources Career Subcluster
Utilities
Activities