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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 projects
Latest Case Study Safeguarding the sustainability of Scotland’s off-grid communities
Local Energy Scotland is a consortium that administers and manage the Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES).
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Latest Post All-Energy 2025

Showing information on Local Energy Systems

Case study

Wind to Agri-Energy

Project lead: Shapinsay Development Trust

Case study

Ensuring Future Energy Security for Knoydart

Project lead: Power Migration Partners Ltd

Case study

River Tay heat pump district heating

Project lead: Perth and Kinross Council Local Energy Challenge Fund award amount: £19,750 Area: Perth and Kinross Perth’s River Tay heat pump p...

Case study

Wellpark (Glasgow) – Community Heat and Power Project

Project lead: Craighall Energy Ltd

Case study

Energise Galashiels

Project lead: Energise Galashiels Trust

Case study

Glasgow’s Infrared Heat Demonstration Project

Project lead: Glasgow City Council

Case study

Glasgow Housing Association: large scale air source heat pump

Project lead: Glasgow Housing Association

Case study

Linlithgow Energy Corridor – ‘Heat from the Street’

Vision

Case study

UrbanLink

Urban Link’s vision was to increase the benefits of local, low carbon energy economies to urban communities through a participatory demand managemen...

Case study

Montrose Local Energy Project

The Montrose Local Energy Project sought to create a new fuel source from a waste product – animal bedding. Working in collaboration with a number o...

Case study

Outer Hebrides Local Energy Hub (OHLEH)

The Outer Hebrides Local Energy Hub (OHLEH) is a multi-sector partnership comprising the Scottish Salmon Company (SSC), Pure Energy Centre, Community ...

Case study

Community Energy Supply for Urban Areas (CESURA)

The project’s vision was to drive down energy costs and stimulate new renewable energy development in urban communities across Scotland.