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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
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 Leverhulme Community Hub
Local Energy Scotland is a consortium that administers and manage the Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES).
About us
Latest Post Realising the benefits – match funding from community benefit funds supporting the delivery of CARES projects

Stage 1

Initialising

Stage 2

Mobilisation

Stage 3

Data Gathering

Stage 4

Options Appraisal

Stage 5

Plan Development

Stage 6

Taking the Plan Forward

Examples of Local Ambassador Work

In Drumnadrochit and Brae, local ambassadors helped to encourage the local community to contribute to the creation of their Local Energy Plan. Check out examples of workshop materials used to support the ambassadors.

Module 1

Workshop 1

<img src="https://localenergy.scot/wp-content/themes/chd/css/icons/dropdown-chev.svg"/>

Download

<img src="https://localenergy.scot/wp-content/themes/chd/css/icons/download.svg"/>

These examples are from a workshop held by local ambassadors in Drumnadrochit.

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Example images

Module 2

Workshop 2

<img src="https://localenergy.scot/wp-content/themes/chd/css/icons/dropdown-chev.svg"/>

Download

<img src="https://localenergy.scot/wp-content/themes/chd/css/icons/download.svg"/>

These examples are from another workshop held by local ambassadors.

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Next: Mobilisation