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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Invitation to Tender (ITT) template: wind pre-feasibility

Invitation to Tender (ITT) templates contain outline work briefs for consultants for specific stages of project development.

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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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Feasibility study and hydrodynamic review of Cuan Sound

Produced by Aquatera Ltd for Luing Community Council in 2018, this report looks into the feasibility of a tidal project in the Isle of Luing.

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Guidance for communities on the development of wave and tidal projects

This report aims to help coastal communities understand the process behind identifying local marine energy opportunities and assessing the scope for d...

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Shared ownership good practice principles: supplementary guidance for delivery of joint venture model

Guidance for a joint venture delivery model where a project is owned by a joint venture vehicle or SPV.

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Commercial advice for shared ownership models

A document outlining commercial advice for shared ownership models, developed by Harper Macleod LLP.

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ALoMCP: a note for local and community renewable energy generators

Guidance about the Accelerated Loss of Mains Change Programme (ALoMCP) for local and community renewable energy generators.

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Overcoming grid connection issues for community energy

A research paper from Cornwall Energy about overcoming grid connection issues for community energy projects.

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Requesting quotations from installers

Applying for CARES funding? We’ve put together some text that you can use when contacting installers for quotations.

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Project model: solar PV installation on a community building

This project model is aimed at local communities looking to install solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on a community building.

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Project model: refurbished wind generation (grid connected)

This project model is for those interested in second-hand refurbished wind turbines and directly connected to the grid.

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Project model: new wind generation (grid connected, above 1MW)

This project model is aimed at those interested in installing new wind turbines, to be locally owned and directly connected to the electricity grid.

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