Tracing the evolution of Hamilton's gas system reveals the city's resilience and dedication to affordable energy for its citizens. The journey began in 1855 when the Hamilton Gas Light and Coke Co. was granted a franchise by the City of Hamilton Council, lighting a mere 60 city streetlights, according to the 2023 Infrastructure Update.

Frustration brewed as the community grappled with high rates and lackluster service, leading to an outcry demanding change. After many complaints, the city council finally proposed a city-operated gas plant in 1888. Winning approval from residents, the municipal gas works began operations in 1890, only to shut down in 1905, forcing the city back into the arms of private suppliers, as noted in the Infrastructure Update.

Natural gas returned to the city five years later, coursing through a 48-mile system that soon became riddled with leaks and other issues amidst swift industrial and residential expansion. The roaring '20s brought forth spirited debate over the merits of municipal versus private gas system control—leading to a special election in February 1926.

Despite a history of complications, the citizens of Hamilton cast their ballots with hope—choosing to keep the municipal system under the city wing. It was a vote rooted in faith in public ownership despite the financial tumult that the Great Depression and World War II would later impose on the country. After nearly 55 years of trials and losses, Hamilton's gas system found its financial footing at the height of the global conflict, as "Hamilton continued to heavily invest in its gas system at a loss through the depression and as World War II was reaching its peak the system finally became financially solvent and stable," The City of Hamiton reported the 2023 Infrastructure Update.