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 Alford and District Men’s Shed
Local Energy Scotland is a consortium that administers and manage the Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES).
About us
Latest Post Opening the door to local energy schemes – complex site classes

Aikengall

Case studies

Name of renewable energy project	Aikengall
Community benefit fund	Aikengall
Project owner(s)
Contact name	Rob Fryer
Contact telephone
Contact email	info@communitywindpower.co.uk
Contact address	Community Windpower Ltd 1st Floor, 2 Parklands Way Maxim Business Park, Eurocentral Motherwell

Who are the beneficiary community / communities (those that make up the fund ‘area of benefit’):
Community benefit structure:
Additional arrangement:	£100,000 per annum donated to BeGreen Dunbar & District for energy efficiency measures and renewable energy technology which can be sourced and installed in local homes and community buildings, along with raising awareness of energy saving and local educational/environmental projects. Additional funding provided for other individual/community group sponsorship.
Please confirm the value of your community benefit package as an equivalent rate of payment per MW per year:	2500
Is this index-linked?	Yes

Do you have a written agreement with a local body in relation to the community benefit package, e.g. community council, development trust, or local authority:	No
If yes, please name the body:

Who administers the fund? (Who holds the fund and makes payments to local causes?):
Who makes decisions on which causes receive funds? If this is a local group (e.g. Community Panel, Committee or Board) please give the name of the group, details of its make-up and how people can come on/off the group:

Do you receive an annual report on fund spend or, if you are the fund administrator, do you produce one: