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ECA Solar Strengthens Community Ties with Donations to Maryland Volunteer Fire Departments

  • Writer: Nick Andrade
    Nick Andrade
  • Apr 7
  • 3 min read

graphic of ECA Solar supporting firefighters
Written by: Nicholas Andrade

At ECA Solar, we believe in going beyond just building clean energy projects—we are committed to establishing strong relationships with the communities we serve. As part of ECA Solar's Beyond the Grid campaign, Development Manager, Jack Rowland, and Marketing Associate, Nicholas Andrade traveled to Maryland to hand deliver donations to three local volunteer fire departments. These contributions highlight our appreciation for the role these fire departments play in keeping Maryland residents safe.



firefighter hat on top of locker
Federalsburg volunteer firefighter Bobby Mowbray's helmet on top of his locker.

Supporting First Responders in Hurlock, Maryland


ECA Solar is currently in the process of permitting a 2MW community solar project in Hurlock, Maryland on less than 6 acres of industrial land. This initiative will bring clean, renewable energy to the local community while generating economic and environmental benefits.


As part of our community focused Beyond the Grid campaign, we took the opportunity to extend financial assistance to the Hurlock Volunteer Fire Department, East New Market Volunteer Fire Department, and Federalsburg Volunteer Fire Department.



Meet the Fire Departments Making a Difference


Hurlock Volunteer Fire Department


volunteer fireman and ECA Solar standing infront of fire truck
Nicholas Andrade with members of the Hurlock Vol. Fire Department

East New Market Volunteer Fire Department


two men standing infront of fire department shacking hands
East New Market Vol. Fire Dept. Trustee, Donald Cheeseman with Jack Rowland

Federalsburg Volunteer Fire Department


Jack Rowland handing donation check to David Morean
Jack Rowland with David Morean, President of Federalsburg Volunteer Fire Dept.

Our Commitment to Community-Driven Development


ECA Solar takes pride in building relationships with local landowners, government officials, and community members to ensure our projects bring real benefits beyond just clean energy. Meeting with these departments in-person allows us to better understand the communities we work with.


Jack Rowland, Development Manager at ECA Solar, emphasized the importance of local collaboration:

From our visits, it was clear through conversations and the near spotless condition of their firetrucks just how much these volunteers value their role in the community. The cost of essential equipment, from the boots to trucks, is very expensive and it was evident how important continued support and funding really is. Each department is incredibly dedicated, and it’s clear these communities are in great hands.

graphic of how much it costs to outfit a firefighter
Hurlock Vol. Fire Dept. average cost to outfit a firefighter.

These donations will help support each departments’ operations, including equipment upgrades, firefighter training, and emergency response initiatives. By strengthening local fire services, we hope to help build a safer, more resilient community.



The Impact of Community Solar in Maryland


Community solar is a game changer for local Maryland residents who may not have the ability to install solar panels on their property. Our upcoming project in Hurlock will provide affordable renewable energy to local homes and businesses located in the Delmarva Power and Light electric utility territory. Additionally, the project will create local job opportunities and contribute to Maryland’s clean energy goals.



firefighters jackets hanging in lockers
Federalsburg Volunteer Fire Dept. fireman jackets hanging in their lockers.

Join Us in Supporting Local Fire Departments

Beyond emergency response, these fire departments also host a variety of events throughout the year to bring the community together and raise funds for their operations:


  • Federalsburg Volunteer Fire Department: hosts its first Chicken BBQ of 2025 on Saturday, April 12th at the fire Fedarlsburg station. Continuing a beloved tradition, they will hold their Chicken BBQ on the second Saturday of each month from April through SeptemberDonate Here!

  • East New Market Volunteer Fire Department offers a popular Drive-Through Shrimp Dinner on Fridays during Lent. For $14, you get a full pound of steamed shrimp and fries. Donate Here!

  • Hurlock Volunteer Fire Department organizes Grocery Bingo Nights, where attendees can win free groceries and other fun prizes. Their next event is scheduled for Saturday, April 26th at 6 PMDonate Here!


These events not only help raise much-needed funds but also foster a strong sense of community and connection. Participating in or supporting these activities is a great way to show appreciation for the volunteers who protect and serve their towns.



For more updates on our projects and community initiatives, follow our LinkedIn Newsletter or visit our Community Investment page.



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