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Local energy is the delivery of renewable energy projects involving a range of public, private and community organisations for the benefit of local consumers operating within a defined area.
An introduction to Local Energy
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Local contacts
The Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES) offers a range of financial support to local energy projects. We can also help you with ongoing support, mentoring, advice and more.
An introduction to funding
Need advice?
Contact your Local Development Officer
Login to the CARES project portal
CARES project portal
Our free resources are here to help you with your local energy project. Explore our list of guides and reports, download resources and more.
Resources overview
Can't find what you need?
Contact your Local Development Officer
Partnerships are essential to delivering your community energy project. Here you can find project contractors, help to get you started and sites available for community energy opportunities.
Need advice?
Contact Local Energy Scotland
Discover the different ways your community can benefit from the transition to clean energy. Use our search tool and interactive map to explore projects across the country offering community benefit packages, shared ownership examples and locally owned schemes.
Explore projects
Explore stories of successful projects supported by Scottish Government for inspiration and practical lessons to help develop your community renewable energy project.
Explore case studies
Latest Case Study Minginish Community Association
Local Energy Scotland is a consortium that administers and manage the Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES).
About us
Latest Post All-Energy 2026

News and events

News

Energy Saving Trust re-awarded contract to continue managing the Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme

12 March 2025

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News

CARES Conference: Scaling up community energy – Speaker presentations

13 February 2025

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News

Scottish Government announce £9m in CARES funding

29 January 2025

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News

Annual community benefits from Scotland’s renewables reach £30 million

08 January 2025

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Blogs

Murtle Market opening ceremony visit

16 December 2024

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Community Buildings

Blogs

Realising the benefits – match funding from community benefit funds supporting the delivery of CARES projects

20 September 2024

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Community Buildings

News

Support for community energy generation

12 September 2024

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News

Community Energy Generation Growth Fund

15 May 2024

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News

Current CARES funding rounds ending soon

09 May 2024

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Uncategorised

Community Action Plan guidance note

03 April 2024

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News

Heat in Buildings Bill: consultation open now

17 January 2024

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Heat

News

About the Introduction to Community Heat Development Programme event

20 December 2023

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