Paving the Way: Seattle Steam's road to renewable energy

摘要

In 1893, downtown Seattle was getting a new start. Largely devastated by the Great Seattle Fire of 1889, the city was rebuilding: Fire-resistant structures were going up, and a new tram system started operation. A steam engine provided DC power for the tram and heated 17 of the city's new buildings. It was the beginning of district heating service; the beginning of what is now Seattle Steam Co. Today, the company's district heating system is an integral part of the community's infrastructure, serving 200 buildings through 18 miles of steam pipe.