How was the

IEC started?
The beginning
Founded on June 26-27, 1906
in London, UK, the IEC has
consistently enhanced the
safety, efficiency, and reliability
of electrical and electronic
technologies.
Driving force
Electricity was the driving force
for the 2nd industrial revolution
and remains equally essential
today, for the 4th industrial
revolution.
Need for
terminology
Since the 1880s, scientists
noted that a lack of common
terms, measurements, and
ratings impeded the progress
of electrical science and
market development.
Palace of
electricity
At the 1904 International
Electrical Congress in St. Louis,
USA, exhibits in the Palace of
Electricity showcased diverse
voltages, DC or 1-, 2-, or 3-
phase AC, with varying
frequencies and connectors.
IEC established
in 1906
As a result, the Congress
proposed forming a permanent
international commission to
standardize electrical
apparatus ratings. The IEC was
established in London, with its
first meeting at Hotel Cecil on
June 26-27, 1906
Global effort
Reps from Austria, Belgium,
Canada, France, Germany, GB,
Holland, Hungary, Switzerland,
Spain, Japan, & the US took part.
Norway, Sweden, & Denmark,
though not represented, were
also members.
First President
At this meeting, Lord Kelvin,
was elected the first
President of the
Commission.
Learn more
Learn more about how the IEC
was founded.

Visit www.iec.ch/history