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
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
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 Maryburgh 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 Over £5.5 million in grant funding has been awarded through the Community Energy Generation Growth Fund

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Resource

Current levels of support

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

Resource

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.

Resource

Eligibility

Part of our Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) resource. This section looks at eligibility criteria for those wishing to apply.

Resource

Background to the RHI

Part of our Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) resource. This section looks at the background to the UK government's RHI.

Funding

CARES Community Buildings Fund

CARES Community Buildings Fund – guidance The following information sets out the recommended process and key criteria for applying for the CARES...

Case study

Cairnlea Parish Church

Technology: air source heat pump

Case study

Strathaven Airfield

Strathaven Airfield is Scotland’s oldest continually used airstrip and the third oldest operational airfield on the west of Scotland mainland. It wa...

Case study

Cullen Community and Residential Centre

The Cullen Community and Residential Centre in Cullen, Moray, provides a wide range of indoor and outdoor facilities for community groups, activities ...

Case study

Edinburgh Community Solar Cooperative

Technology: solar PV

Case study

The Shieling Project

Technology: 3.15kW solar PV panels plus 3.8kWh LifePO battery, and biomass system (30 kW log boiler)

Case study

Glasgow Community Energy

Technology: 91kW Solar PV panels Location: Glasgow City CARES funding: £59,255 capital loan and enablement grant Date installed/operational: Septembe...

Funding

Let’s Do Net Zero: Off Electricity Grid Communities Fund

The Let’s Do Net Zero: Off Electricity Grid Communities Fund aims to decarbonise and future-proof the existing local independent electrical grids of...

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