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
Looking for inspiration?
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Already have an idea or proposal?
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 Granton Project
Local Energy Scotland is a consortium that administers and manages the Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES).
About us
Latest Post New funding available for EV charging in rural and island communities

News and events

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Blogs

New funding available for EV charging in rural and island communities

10 July 2026

Businesses and landowners in rural and island comm...

Community Benefits Community Owned

Blogs

Highland communities share in over £2.1 million of new investment from SSE Renewables

01 July 2026

From new affordable homes to community energy infr...

Community Benefits Community Owned

Blogs

Local Energy Scotland at All-Energy 2026: supporting community energy and grid innovation

23 June 2026

Local Energy Scotland had a strong presence at All...

Blogs

Local Energy Scotland at the All-Energy Conference 2025

15 August 2025

Blogs

Local Energy Scotland visit to Shetland – March 2025

29 May 2025

Blogs

Murtle Market opening ceremony visit

16 December 2024

Community Buildings

Blogs

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

20 September 2024

Blogs

Local Energy Scotland at All-Energy 2023

23 May 2023

Community Buildings Energy storage Solar PV

Blogs

Community building event with Inverness Masjid

04 May 2023

News and events

New funding available for EV charging in rural and island communities

Highland communities share in over £2.1 million of new investment from SSE Renewables

Local Energy Scotland at All-Energy 2026: supporting community energy and grid innovation

Local Energy Scotland at the All-Energy Conference 2025

Local Energy Scotland visit to Shetland – March 2025

Murtle Market opening ceremony visit

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

Local Energy Scotland at All-Energy 2023

Community building event with Inverness Masjid

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