The birthplace and museum of renowned inventor Thomas Edison, located in Milan, Ohio, has transitioned to solar power, marking a significant step towards sustainability for the historic site.
SolarEdge, in collaboration with Meyer Burger and Unirac, generously donated the necessary equipment for the rooftop solar system, while National Renewable Energy Partners contributed their expertise and labor for the installation.
With this transition, the Thomas Edison Birthplace Museum anticipates financial savings on its electricity bills while enhancing the visitor experience by showcasing Edison's interest in efficient energy sources.
Thomas Edison's foresight regarding solar energy is underscored by a quote from a 1931 conversation with Henry Ford and Harvey Firestone, where he expressed his support for solar power, stating, “I'd put my money on the sun and solar energy. What a source of power! I hope we don't have to wait till oil and coal run out before we tackle that.”
Ron Cull, a board member of the museum, emphasized the symbolic significance of incorporating solar energy into the landmark building, stating, “By incorporating solar energy into the museum's framework, we are not only embracing sustainability but also enriching the story of electricity, from its inception to its modern-day applications.”