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
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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

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Requirements

Part of our project model: installing solar PV panels on a community building. This section looks at what you'll need before you get started.

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How we can help

Part of our project model: installing solar PV panels on a community building. This section looks at how we can help.

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Implementation

Part of our project model: installing solar PV panels on a community building. This looks at the steps you'll go through on our project.

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Delivery

Part of our project model: installing solar PV panels on a community building. This section looks at what you will need to do before you can install s...

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Preparation

Part of our project model: installing solar PV panels on a community building. This section looks at what you'll need to do before you can install.

Funding

CARES Community Buildings Fund – frequently asked questions

We’ve put together some frequently asked questions to help you work out if your application will be eligible.

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Let’s Do Net Zero Community Buildings Fund – example application form

An example application form for the Let's Do Net Zero Community Buildings Fund (from May 2022).

Case study

Eckford Village Hall

Technology: air-to-air heat pump Location: Eckford, Scottish Borders CARES funding: CARES capital grant of £9,210 Date installed/operational: Decembe...

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Further information

Part of our Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) resource. This section provides useful links and sources of information to find out more about the RHI.

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RHI degression

Part of our Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) resource. This section looks at the degression mechanism which regulates the level of RHI payments.

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Current levels of support

Part of our Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) resource. This section looks at tariff levels which are subject to regular review.

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How to apply for the RHI

Part of our Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) resource. This section looks at how to apply and your post acceptance responsibilities.

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