Powering the Past with the Future: Solar at the Edison Birthplace
Updated: Nov 12, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MILAN, OHIO – The Thomas Edison Birthplace Museum proudly announces its new solar array is fully operational, powering the Birthplace Office and Don Gfell Education Center. This milestone brings renewable energy to the property where one of America’s greatest inventors began his story—steps away from the historic home where Thomas Edison was born.
In 1923, Edison visited his Birthplace with Henry Ford and Harvey Firestone and was reportedly “shocked” to find it still without electricity. More than a century later, his hometown shines again, powered by the energy source he predicted would change the world.
“I’d put my money on the sun and solar energy,” Edison once said. “What a source of power! I hope we don’t have to wait until oil and coal run out before we tackle that.”
This solar initiative, achieved entirely through donated products and services, was made possible thanks to the generosity of SolarEdge, Meyer Burger, Unirac, and National Renewable Energy Partners (NREP). Their collaboration reflects the same spirit of innovation and teamwork that defined Edison’s famous Menlo Park laboratory.
The Edison Birthplace is now the only Edison site powered by solar energy, and among the few museums built before 1850 to embrace renewable technology—honoring the past while embracing a sustainable future. The historic Birthplace home remains preserved in its original 19th-century state, maintaining its authenticity while the neighboring office and education center take this modern step forward.
Special recognition is extended to Trustee Ron Cull, whose determination was instrumental in completing this project, and to Andrea Auld of NREP, whose bulldog attitude and persistence in resolving monitoring issues ensured the project’s success. The museum also extends its gratitude to the trustees, staff, and supporters who continue to uphold its mission and preserve Edison’s legacy.
Visitors can view the live solar dashboard at tomedison.org/solar-dashboard. Real-time data displays how much sunlight is being converted into clean, renewable electricity daily, reducing the museum’s environmental footprint while lowering energy costs.
From the village of Milan to the forefront of clean energy, Edison’s vision continues to shine bright.
Contact:
Robert Wheeler, President, Board of Trustees
media@tomedison.org | 419.499.2135 | tomedison.org
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