HONAKER, VA – JULY 15, 2026 – Off-grid solar energy solutions for homes, businesses and remote infrastructure utilizing locally manufactured portable solar trailers is what Joshua Eaton’s new business, Eaton Power Solutions, LLC provides to those seeking an alternative energy source in the region.
Eaton Power Solutions, LLC is a recent recipient of a $10,000 Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority (VCEDA) Seed Capital Matching Grant. Seed capital grants are funded from regional funds received by VCEDA which are paid by the natural gas industry.
“Eaton Power Solutions, LLC manufactures solar trailers which have numerous applications from meeting the needs of contractors and in emergency back-up applications to those capable of powering food trucks, large residences or portable EV charging stations,” said Jonathan Belcher, VCEDA executive director/general counsel. “The business projects three full-time employees and one part-time employee within five years.”
“Not only do we manufacture portable solar power trailers in the region, but we also rent them or install them from our 21 Mountain View Circle, Honaker location,” Eaton said. “We design and build trailer-mounted solar power systems that deliver clean, reliable electricity anywhere it is needed with no additional fuel costs, no noise and no emissions.
“I started the business because I saw a need for it in order to supply power in remote areas. “No plug-in or panel? No problem. With the solar power trailer, the need for electricity is met. “We offer 5, 10 and 15kw trailer models, but can customize them to meet specific customer needs.”
Eaton noted response to his new business, which opened last September, has been good.
“What we have seen is a clear, validated demand for both the sales and rental sides of the business,” Eaton said. “Existing customers have responded enthusiastically to the project and inquiries for both purchases and rentals continue to grow as word spreads across the region of their availability.”
He noted in the near term, the business is marketing its services in the seven county-coalfield region as well as into Washington County. In the longer term, Eaton plans to expand sales and rentals into surrounding multi-state Appalachian markets including those in Northeast Tennessee, Western North Carolina, Southeast Kentucky and Southern West Virginia.
Eaton used the VCEDA grant for the component supplies and equipment needed to build and equip the solar trailers.
“I am really thankful for the grant,” Eaton said. “It will help us to furnish out the trailers.”
The trailers are available for purchase or may be rented out by the day, the week, or longer as needed. They assist with powering light towers, food trucks, as emergency back-up power sources and more and are noise and emissions-free, unlike a traditional generator, Eaton noted. Currently, he has five available for rent.
Eaton worked with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Southwest Virginia Community College (SWCC) in developing his application to VCEDA. He received a letter of support from the Russell County Industrial Development Authority.
“We are always excited to see new entrepreneurs invest in Southwest Virginia, bringing innovation, specialized services and new opportunities to our local economy,” said Denise Harmon, SBDC director at SWCC. “It was a pleasure working with Josh as he launched Eaton Power Solutions and turned his business vision into reality. His dedication and entrepreneurial spirit are a great example of the talent and determination found throughout our region. The SBDC is proud to have been part of Josh’s entrepreneurial journey. We wish him continued success and look forward to watching Eaton Power Solutions grow, serve the community, and contribute to the economic vitality of Southwest Virginia. Congratulations, Josh, on this well-deserved achievement.”
“Eaton Power Solutions fills a critical need in Russell County by expanding access to alternative energy services,” said Laura Gilmer, executive director of the Russell County Industrial Development Authority (IDA).
“Businesses like this one are exactly the kind of forward-looking investment that will help attract new business growth to our county, while creating jobs and generating new tax revenue for our community.”
The business is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Friday. For more information about Eaton Power Solutions, interested persons may visit the website at eatonpowersolutins.com or visit the Facebook page. Contacts for company services may be made via Facebook Messenger or by emailing eatonjosh0@gmail.com.
