Renewable energy is paving the way for a greener future, and its impact is not limited to just the environment. In a remarkable step towards sustainability and innovation, Talbot County Public Schools has recently embraced solar power by installing a solar array on their premises. This transformative project has been made possible through the remarkable support of generous donors and a visionary suggestion from a Benson & Mangold Agent.
The solar panels harness the sun’s abundant energy, converting it into clean electricity. This innovative initiative not only reduces the school’s carbon footprint but also sets an inspiring example for the community and students about the importance of sustainability.
About the Project
The project, was made possible by the generous funding donors Peter and Linda Yungbluth, a land donor, and a collaborative effort involving Talbot County Public Schools, Easton Utilities, the Mid-Shore Community Foundation, and Sunrise Solar, according to officials.
In 2016, a generous donation of a 2.4-acre parcel of land on Magnolia Street in Easton was received by the school district. The decision was made to utilize this land for the construction of the solar array.
“The panels will save the schools money by producing almost-free electricity for 25-30 years,” Yungbluth said. “This helps reduce our (greenhouse gas) debt, as solar replaces coal and gas electricity generation. The less CO2 we send up to the air, the less we have to take back out. Taking it out is 2-3 times as expensive as the electricity it gives us.”
TCPS reported that Easton Utilities took charge of coordinating the installation of essential electrical infrastructure at Easton Elementary. While Sunrise Solar, supplied and installed the solar panel structure as part of the project.
Officials say Yungbluth would like to see other members of the community contribute to expanding the solar installation. Anyone interested in supporting the next phase of the project should contact Mr. Buck Duncan at Mid-Shore Community Foundation at (410) 820-8175, and ask about the fund “Helping Talbot Public Spaces Generate Renewable Energy”. “Mid-Shore Community Foundation is pleased to be a part of this exciting and rewarding project,” Mr. Duncan said. “We are fortunate that there are individuals like Pete Yungbluth who are willing to share their personal time, talent, and resources to make a difference for future generations of Talbot County residents.”
The Role of a Benson & Mangold Agent
Behind every successful initiative, there is often an idea that sparks the flame of change. In this case, Tim Miller of Benson & Mangold Real Estate (pictured below) played a role by suggesting the idea that the property owner could donate the property to Talbot County Public Schools when they had it listed with him back in 2016. He then connected the parties. Recognizing the potential of the land and the benefits and educational opportunities it could provide, this visionary suggestion laid the groundwork for the transformative project to take shape.
About Tim
Tim is a lifelong resident of the Eastern Shore, a so-called “Native”. Tim started with Benson & Mangold in January of 2002 and specializes in Commercial and Residential sales.
Growing up in Easton Tim went through the local school system and was a three-sport letter winner at Easton High School. After High School, Salisbury University was his next destination where he played on the nationally ranked Lacrosse team, and Graduated from the Perdue School of Business in 1991.
Upon receiving his diploma, Tim came home to work in his family’s third-generation oil distribution business, which his grandfather started in the late 1940s. After running the company for eleven years the business was sold. The decision to go into real estate was easy, as it had been a part-time obsession already.
At the time Benson & Mangold was in a growth mode and looking for new agents with local ties, and business experience. It has been a good fit ever since. Tim has been successful by using his local network and business experience to aid in getting his deals done.
Tim resides in the Easton area with his wife Amy, daughter Caroline, and son Timmy Jr. Tim’s memberships include the Talbot County YMCA, Talbot Country Club, The Chesapeake Bay Yacht Club, and The Maryland Club. He was a member of the Rotary Club for over 10 years.
Conclusion
Thanks to the generous donors and the visionary suggestion from a Benson & Mangold Agent, this transformative project is now a reality, empowering students, inspiring communities, and creating a brighter, cleaner future for everyone involved.
