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
Don't know where to begin?
Our guide to getting started
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
Our free resources are here to help you with your local energy project. Explore our list of guides and reports, download resources, find a partner and more.
Resources overview
Can't find what you need?
Contact your Local Development Officer
Be inspired by our selection of projects and case studies that feature useful hints and details on projects undertaken. CARES looks to support innovation in Scotland’s renewable energy industry and to encourage learning by example.
Explore Case Studies
Latest Case Study Duns Swimming Pool
Local Energy Scotland is a consortium that administers and manage the Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES).
About us
Latest Post Current CARES funding rounds ending soon

Getting started

We have different advice, resources, case studies and more to help you through each stage of a local energy project. Explore the options below and if in doubt, contact your local development officer for help.

Starter guides by organisation type

Do you represent one of the following organisation types? Start here for organisation-specific advice.

Charity Community Other organisations and individuals Faith group

Starter guides by project type

If your project fits into one of the following categories, start with one of our project type-specific guides. If you’re not sure what type of project you’re planning, read our introduction to local energy.

Community buildings Community owned Heat Shared ownership Community benefits Local energy plans

Explore funding options

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.

Let’s Do Net Zero Community Buildings Fund Let’s Do Net Zero: Off Electricity Grid Communities Fund

Guides, resources and case studies by technology

If you’re looking for technology-specific information, use one of the following links.

Biomass CHP District Heating Energy storage Heat Pumps Hydro Offshore Wind Onshore Wind Other Solar PV Solar Thermal Solar water heaters Tidal

Guides, resources and case studies by project type

If you’re looking for information relevant for a particular project type, use one of the following links.

Community Benefits Community Buildings Community Owned Heat Islands Local Energy Plans Local Energy Systems Locally Owned Off-electricity Grid Shared Ownership

Partners, investors, mentors and help

Follow one of the following links if you’re looking for support from others, whether that be one of our local contacts, a mentor an investor or another kind of partner.

CARES Mentoring Programme Contractors and suppliers Local contacts Contact Us