The 1920s

PPL is born

PPL, originally called Pennsylvania Power & Light, was formed on June 4, 1920, when eight utilities merged into one. The company, which had 62 power plants, became a model for the mergers and consolidations that occurred throughout the electric utility industry during the 1920s.

1920

Influential leader becomes company’s first president

PP&L’s first president, Edward Hall, guided the company through its initial stages of growth. Hall was also one of the founders of the modern game of football.

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Edward Hall

1926

New plant creates landmark lake

The Wallenpaupack hydroelectric plant is put into service, creating Lake Wallenpaupack, a 5,760-acre lake that is a mile wide, 16 miles long and 60 feet deep. The new hydroelectric power plant was capable of producing 40,000 kWh of power. To use this power, PP&L launched an effort to upgrade its transmission system and substations.

A kayaker paddles past the Lake Wallenpaupack hydroelectric dam. Photo courtesy of The...

A kayaker paddles past the Lake Wallenpaupack hydroelectric dam. Photo courtesy of The Times-Tribune.

1928

PP&L’s iconic Tower Building is erected

PP&L’s headquarters inspired the design of the Rockefeller Center in New York City. It has become an icon in the Lehigh Valley and an anchor in Allentown, Pennsylvania’s skyline. Within its walls, the Tower building holds fascinating artifacts and stories.

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A time-lapse animation depicting the construction of PPL Tower