Edison's Electric Chair PR Stunt: The Shocking History of AC vs DC

Early Use of Edison's Electric Chair

By Big Rock Power – where we keep your bills honest and your history shocking

Wait… Edison Did What Now?

Let’s talk about a lesser-known, and honestly jaw-dropping, chapter in electricity’s history. You’ve probably heard of Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla, right? Two brilliant inventors, both determined to light up the world. But this isn't just a battle of brains.

This is the War of Currents, and it had everything: drama, sabotage, and, yes, even a death chair. In fact, Edison’s electric chair PR stunt became one of the most shocking tactics in tech history, a twisted campaign to discredit Tesla’s alternating current by associating it with death.

The Electric Chair: PR Disguised as Innovation

In 1890, the first use of the electric chair was a grim spectacle. It wasn’t about humane execution, it was about convincing people that Tesla’s AC was deadly. Edison orchestrated it to make alternating current look like a menace to society.

Yet, despite this dark tactic, the public caught on. AC was more efficient, traveled longer distances, and ultimately became the standard for modern power grids, including Alberta’s.

The First “Demonstration” Wasn’t a Science Fair

In 1890, the first electric chair execution happened — powered by AC. Edison didn’t invent the chair himself, but he supported the idea just to tank Tesla’s credibility.

It was graphic. It was public. And it was pure PR warfare.

Luckily, the public (eventually) realized that AC was not the enemy — in fact, it was safer, more efficient, and better suited to homes and businesses. Tesla’s ideas won. But Edison’s antics? Legendary.

Why This Still Matters in Alberta

You might think these electricity wars are ancient history, but Alberta’s power grid is still plagued by misinformation and outdated infrastructure. Our aging electricity infrastructure and the lack of grid modernization in Alberta mean we’re still at risk of blackouts, rate hikes, and political power plays.

It’s no longer just Edison vs. Tesla—it’s the average Albertan vs. an unstable power grid and unclear electric grid upgrades. Sound familiar?

 Want to Geek Out More (and Save Money While You’re At It)?

We love a good power story — but we love helping you save on your power bill even more.

 Check out our current rates, including our limited-time 6.5¢/kWh offer for those stuck on the Rate of Last Resort (RoLR).

 And hey, if you’re a farmer, we wrote you a whole Farmer’s Guide to Electricity in Alberta. It’s free. It’s fun. And it could help you keep more hay in your wallet.

Final Word 

From Edison’s electric chair to today’s confusing energy policies, the lesson is clear: power should be transparent, not manipulated. History shows us how easily facts can be distorted when profit is on the line—and how long those distortions can last.

It’s time to flip the switch on outdated narratives, misleading marketing, and inflated bills. Albertans deserve energy providers who tell the truth, offer real value, and put people over profits. That’s the power of clarity—and that’s what Big Rock Power stands for.

Want to take control of your electricity plan? Compare Alberta electricity rates and switch to transparent pricing today. No gimmicks. No guesswork. Just power made simple.

FAQS

1. Did Edison really invent the electric chair?

No, Edison didn’t invent the electric chair—but he supported it to discredit Tesla’s AC power. It was a PR move during the War of Currents to paint alternating current as dangerous.

2. What was the War of Currents?

The War of Currents was a battle between Thomas Edison’s DC power and Nikola Tesla’s AC power. Tesla’s system won in the end and is still the standard for electricity in Alberta and around the world.

3. Why is Alberta’s electricity market so confusing?

Alberta's power market includes fluctuating rates, complex contracts, and hidden fees. That’s why many Albertans are switching to providers like Big Rock Power for more transparent energy plans.

4. How can I compare electricity rates in Alberta?

You can compare electricity rates online or directly through providers like Big Rock Power, which offers fixed rates and honest billing—no PR stunts needed.

5. Where can I find help understanding Alberta’s power system?

Check out our Farmer’s Guide to Electricity in Alberta for a free, easy-to-understand breakdown of electricity plans, billing, and how to save money—whether you're rural or urban.

If you want to know more about Alberta's Electricity Industry including it's history and it's future follow this link.