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 Balerno community centre
Local Energy Scotland is a consortium that administers and manage the Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES).
About us
Latest Post The Community Energy Generation Growth Fund is now open for applications

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Acknowledging CARES support and promoting your project

This three-part guide explains how you should acknowledge support from the Scottish Government’s CARES when promoting your project.

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How Local Energy Scotland can help

Part of our site guide: energy options for community buildings. This section looks at how we can help.

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Benefits of typical solutions

Part of our site guide: energy options for community buildings. This section looks at the benefits of typical solutions, including installing renewabl...

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Common activities

Part of our site guide: energy options for community buildings. This section looks at common activities.

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Identify and prioritise challenges

Part of our site guide: energy options for community buildings. This section looks at common issues and challenges.

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...

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...

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Community energy development models in Scotland – 2018

This report aims to give an independent assessment of the potential for successful delivery models of community energy projects.

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