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 Case Studies
Latest Case Study St Ninian’s RC Church
Local Energy Scotland is a consortium that administers and manage the Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES).
About us
Latest Post Local Energy Scotland at All-Energy 2023

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Part three: Hints and tips on promoting your project

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

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Part two: Your project’s case study

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

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Part one: Acknowledging CARES support

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

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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.

Case study

ISKCON Scotland

Technologies: air source heat pumps, solar PV array, solar water heaters, energy storage Location: Lesmahagow, South Lanarkshire CARES funding: £50,7...

Case study

Inch Park Community Sports Club

Technologies: Solar PV, LED lighting Location: Inch Park Community Sports Club, Edinburgh CARES funding: £8,280 capital grant, Let’s Do Net Zero Co...

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How Local Energy Scotland can help

We can help your community with its renewable energy project. Advice – We have a network of Local Development Officers across Scotland to provi...

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Benefits of typical solutions

In our site guide about community buildings, we outline the benefits of typical solutions including installing renewable technologies.

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Common activities

Addressing many of the issues facing community buildings can begin with the same initial steps.

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Identify and prioritise challenges

We outline common issues and challenges related to community buildings and provide some notes on typical or appropriate initial actions.

Case study

Cairnlea Parish Church

Technology: air source heat pump

Case study

Edinburgh Community Solar Cooperative

Technology: solar PV

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