Nancy Miller is the CEO and co-owner of Miller Prosthetics & Orthotics in Belpre, Ohio. Her business provides prosthetic and orthotic services in the Mid-Ohio Valley. They strive to return patients back to the activity level they desire from walking and moving to running, fishing, and hunting. Third Sun Solar has been proud to work with a mission-driven business, working as a force for good in the world.

The Solar Journey

As a member of the Belpre Area Chamber of Commerce, Nancy first became interested in solar after hearing a presentation made by Luke Sulfridge with the Southeast Ohio Public Energy Council. His presentation explained the free solar assessment process.

Nancy says “Our business, Miller Prosthetics & Orthotics, is eager to stay on the leading edge of technology. We were the first in our area to request the free solar assessment which also included a quote on the service. After the assessment, I inquired about the REAP (Rural Energy for America Program) grant process with Randel Monehemius. Mr. Monehemius is the Business Program Specialist for the Ohio State office, Rural Development of the United States Department of Agriculture. He provided a list of solar companies, and I chose Third Sun Solar for a second quote.”

What was the businesses motivation for going solar?  

Nancy says: “We are interested in being good stewards of our environment. Clean energy is very important, and we are always exploring new technology and looking for efficient business solutions in all areas.”

The solar journey for the business was straightforward. They learned that, with the REAP grant and the Federal Tax Credit for solar, the investment in solar panels would be possible. Through the quoting process, they also learned that their location provided ample sun exposure.

An obstacle they faced when going solar? Nancy says: “There were several companies out there. Each quote takes time. After researching online, I selected a few companies that were close to our location and had solid experience.”

When searching for a local solar installer, Nancy paid close attention to these key elements:

• Location of the solar company
• Strong references
• Experience of the contractor
• Price of the panels and installation

These are great points for homeowners and businesses alike to keep in mind when choosing a solar installer. The physical structure of our businesses and our homes are often our most valuable assets. Choosing a solar installer to modify and upgrade these valuable assets is an important task. That is why we always encourage solar shoppers we work with to ask for references, look at experience, and make sure their solar partner will be there for them throughout the length of this long-term investment.

What has the business liked most about the solar energy system – so far?

Nancy says: “We had a very good experience from getting the information needed to apply for the REAP grant to design. Jarrod Starr was very knowledgeable about the process and materials. We also found confidence after our site visit by Adam Brown. He explained the cost and benefits about locating the panels on the roof vs our initial thought of locating on the hillside behind the building. He also helped guide us in picking out panels that would look good with our building.

We were lucky with great weather for the week of installation. Jake and his crew did a nice job and were able to install without any disruption to our day to day business.

The power company, AEP, installed the bi-directional meter within a few days of the permit and we were able to turn on the panels the next day – which we were pleased to have 100% sunshine.”

With the investment in Solar, Miller Prosthetics & Orthotics is acting on their intention to be environmentally sustainable.

While offsetting 100% of their energy with renewable power, this energy is enough to annually offset:

• Greenhouse gas emissions from 3 passenger vehicles driven for 1 year
• CO2 Emissions from charging 1,839,656 smartphones

Talk about big energy savings!

“Since our installation, we have had several comments from our patients, employees and community members on how they like our new solar panels. The Solar Edge app is a great way to get immediate feedback on how much power the panels are producing.” – Nancy Miller, CEO, and co-owner of Miller Prosthetics & Orthotics.

If you are interested in learning more about solar, the REAP Grant, solar incentives, and more – reach out for a free, no-obligation solar assessment.