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?
Explore cases studies
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 Minginish Community Association
Local Energy Scotland is a consortium that administers and manage the Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES).
About us
Latest Post All-Energy 2026

Showing information on

Resource

How community projects are financed

Part of our shared ownership module. This section looks at how community projects are financed; either equity, debt finance or grants.

Resource

Getting the right advice for your shared ownership project

Part of our shared ownership module. This section looks at how to get the right professional advice for your shared ownership project.

Resource

How CARES can help with shared ownership

Part of our shared ownership module. This section looks at how the Scottish Government's Community and Renewable Energy Scheme can help.

Resource

What are the benefits of shared ownership?

Part of our shared ownership module. This section looks at the benefits of shared ownership for communities and developers.

Resource

What is shared ownership?

Part of our shared ownership module. This section looks at what shared ownership is and explains different structures.

Case study

Roy Bridge School House project

Technology: air source heat pump

Case study

Findon Hall

Technology: air-to-air heat pump and solar panels

Funding

Examples of programme support

This page sets out what we will expect as outcomes for three possible heat development projects for the community heat development programme. Differen...

Case study

Eaglesham Bowling Club

Technology: 4kW solar photovoltaic (PV) panels Location: Eaglesham, East Renfrewshire CARES funding: £4,021.71 capital grant Date installed/operation...

Funding

Community Heat Development Programme

The Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES) supports communities to engage with, participate in, and benefit from the en...

Case study

CentreStage village

Technology: solar photovoltaic (PV) panels Location: Kilmarnock, East Ayrshire CARES funding: £19,488.70 capital grant Date installed/operational: Se...

Resource

Part three: Hints and tips on promoting your project

Part of our 'Acknowledging CARES support and promoting your project' guide.

Showing information on

Sign up for updates