As the renewable energy market across Scotland changes, with reduced Government support, and higher grid connection costs, community groups must look to new, more innovative ways to develop community renewable energy.
This module provides guidance on different business models that might enable a project to deliver a grid connection between generator and consumer, secure additional revenue from the sale of electricity and provide the greatest community benefit. This includes information on different commercial arrangements for selling power, for example, through selling directly to communities through a White Label agreement with a supplier, or even siting a project close to a commercial load and selling power through a private wire to a customer on a long-term contract.
This module is structured in seven parts to act as a guide and reference document for CARES clients in the development of community renewable energy projects in Scotland.
Background
A background as to why local energy supply needs to be considered for community renewable energy projects.
Distributing electricity to consumers
A brief introduction to electrical connections.
Supplying electricity to consumers
An overview of the basic business model available to community groups and the smart export guarantee.
Alternative supply models
A more detailed look at different supply options which are potentially available to community groups.
Battery storage
An introduction to maximising income through Energy storage options.
Finding the best option
An overview of the considerations that community groups should make whilst choosing their business model.
Further information
Appropriate links, definitions, and references to other information, collated for quick reference.
