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 projects
Latest Case Study RHIFA’s chill and ice making facility
Local Energy Scotland is a consortium that administers and manage the Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES).
About us
Latest Post Energy Saving Trust re-awarded contract to continue managing the Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme

Sharing learnings from the CARES Community Heat Development Programme

Thursday 27 March 2025, 12:30pm – 1:30pm

This webinar will take place on Zoom and is free to attend, but please book your space in advance.

The Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES) Community Heat Development Programme is a pilot learning programme that has been running from October 2022 until March 2025. Join this webinar to learn about the community heat projects we’ve worked with and the findings from the feasibility work.

The projects are diverse in type, scale and geography. We’ve looked at collective purchase, communal heating and heat networks and a wide range of heat sources. Projects include blocks of flats, neighbourhoods, villages and city streets. We’ll share what’s been learned from exploring how communities can work together to deliver low carbon community heat projects.

How to book

Please register through Zoom to sign up for the webinar.

Sharing learnings from the CARES Community Heat Development Programme

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