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).
About us
Latest Post All-Energy 2025

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Funding

Community Energy Generation Growth Fund

This £1.5 million grant fund supports community groups across Scotland to develop wind, solar PV and other types of renewable energy generation proje...

Case study

Duns Swimming Pool

Duns Swimming Pool is a rural swimming pool and leisure centre in Langtongate, Duns in the Scottish Borders. The Trust had ambitions to reduce its ene...

Resource

Community benefit Memorandum of Understanding – guidance and template

This guide, prepared by Burness Paul, contains:

Case study

Buchanan Community Hydro

Buchanan is a proud, rural Scottish community on the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond. The local community, which has a long history, is eager to play its ...

Resource

Community shared ownership market engagement report

The Scottish Government’s Energy Strategy outlined its ambition to see communities benefit from the development of onshore renewables in their local...

Case study

Peedie Kirk United Reformed Church

In October 2018, members of Peedie Kirk United Reformed Church in Kirkwall asked Resource Efficient Scotland (now Business Energy Scotland) for advice...

Resource

Recommendations to communities, from communities

Part of our Community Benefits income for net zero resource. This section looks at recommendations by communities to others.

Resource

Case study: Fintry Development Trust

Part of our Community Benefits income for net zero resource. This section looks at Fintry Development Trust's case study.

Resource

Case study: BeGreen Dunbar

Part of our Community Benefits income for net zero resource. This section looks at BeGreen Dunbar's case study.

Resource

Case study: Clydesdale Community Energy Transition Co.

Part of our Community Benefits income for net zero resource. This section looks at Clydesdale Community Energy Transition Co's case study.

Resource

Why spend community benefits on net zero projects?

Part of our Community Benefits income for net zero resource. This section looks at why to spend community benefits on net zero projects.

Resource

How local authority-led energy planning can help you create and update your Local Energy plan

Part of our ‘Local Energy Plans and beyond’ resource. This section looks at public information which could inform your Local Energy Plan.

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