Welcome to Avon Lake, Ohio, a small city with a rich industrial history that played a significant role in powering the growth of Cleveland and its surrounding areas. As you explore Avon Lake’s early years, you’ll learn about the transformative impact of the Avon Lake Power Plant, which was once the largest of its kind in the world.
The story begins in 1924 when the Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company (CEI) announced plans to construct a new power plant in Avon Beach Park. This ambitious project, completed between March 1925 and July 1926, cost approximately $30 million. The plant was strategically located on the shores of Lake Erie to harness the abundant cool water necessary for condensing steam from its turbines. This innovative use of natural resources allowed the plant to produce an impressive 400,000 horsepower, marking a new era in electrical power availability.
One of the most dramatic events in the plant’s history occurred on February 21, 1953. On that day, a massive influx of gizzard shad fish clogged the plant’s water intake screens, causing a sudden shutdown of all seven generators and resulting in a widespread power outage across Greater Cleveland. It took a concerted effort by engineers, welders, and divers to resolve the crisis, highlighting the plant’s dependence on the lake’s resources.
Despite its industrial prowess, the Avon Lake Power Plant faced increasing scrutiny over its environmental impact. By 2010, concerns about toxic emissions led to calls for stricter regulations. This pressure ultimately resulted in the plant’s closure in 2021, paving the way for a new chapter in Avon Lake’s development.
Throughout its operational years, the plant not only powered homes and industries but also shaped the local economy and community. Today, as Avon Lake embraces new opportunities, its history as a powerhouse of innovation and industry continues to resonate.
