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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Case study

Local Electricity Discount Schemes (LEDS)

Local electricity discount schemes (LEDS) can be designed to provide an annual discount on the electricity bills of consumers living near participatin...

Case study

Kinlochbervie Community Hydro Scheme

Technology: 200kW community hydroelectric scheme

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Appendix 2: Shared ownership models

Part of our shared ownership module. This section looks at some examples of how some shared ownership models may work in practice.

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Appendix 1: Three Stage Process for Shared Ownership

Part of our shared ownership module. This section looks at the three stage process of undertaking shared ownership projects.

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Investment risks

The following list of risk factors is not exhaustive and there may be other risks which relate to an investment in a renewable development. It is esse...

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Shared ownership case studies

Part of our shared ownership module. This section looks at two case studies: Neilston Community Wind Farm and Allt Dearg Wind Farmers LLP.

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Investment Memorandum/Heads of Terms document

Part of our shared ownership module. This section looks at the investment memorandum/heads of terms document.

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Community-led versus developer-led investment offerings

Part of our shared ownership module. This section looks at the differences between community and developer led investment offerings.

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How community projects are financed

Part of our shared ownership module. This section looks at how community projects are financed; either equity, debt finance or grants.

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Getting the right advice for your shared ownership project

Part of our shared ownership module. This section looks at how to get the right professional advice for your shared ownership project.

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How CARES can help with shared ownership

Part of our shared ownership module. This section looks at how the Scottish Government's Community and Renewable Energy Scheme can help.

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What are the benefits of shared ownership?

Part of our shared ownership module. This section looks at the benefits of shared ownership for communities and developers.

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