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

Showing information on Community Owned

Case study

Dundee Renewable Energy Society solar meadow

Technology: Solar photovoltaic

Case study

Annexe Communities Partick Healthy Living Centre

Location: Partick Healthy Living Centre, Partick, Glasgow

Case study

RHIFA’s chill and ice making facility

Location: Shore Street, Rosehearty

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 ...

Case study

Knoydart energy security project

Knoydart Renewables Ltd (KRL) is a wholly owned subsidiary of the charity Knoydart Foundation. Knoydart Foundation was established in 1997 to take own...

Case study

Kinlochbervie Community Hydro Scheme

Technology: 200kW community hydroelectric scheme

Case study

Eaglesham Bowling Club

Technology: 4kW solar photovoltaic (PV) panels Location: Eaglesham, East Renfrewshire CARES funding: £4,021.71 capital grant Date installed/operation...

Case study

CentreStage village

Technology: solar photovoltaic (PV) panels Location: Kilmarnock, East Ayrshire CARES funding: £19,488.70 capital grant Date installed/operational: Se...

Resource

Part three: Hints and tips on promoting your project

Part of our 'Acknowledging CARES support and promoting your project' guide.

Resource

Part two: Your project’s case study

Part of our 'Acknowledging CARES support and promoting your project' guide.

Resource

Part one: Acknowledging CARES support

Part of our 'Acknowledging CARES support and promoting your project' guide.

Resource

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.

Showing information on Community Owned

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