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 North Connel Hall
Local Energy Scotland is a consortium that administers and manage the Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES).
About us
Latest Post Annual community benefits from Scotland’s renewables reach £30 million

Showing information on Community Benefits

Case study

Strathdearn shop and cafe

The Strathdearn shop and cafe is based in Tomatin, Strathdearn. The building is community owned by Strathdearn Community Developments (SCD) and is ope...

Case study

Hagshaw Energy Cluster

Location: Lanarkshire, East Ayrshire

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

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

Community benefits income for net zero

This guide explores the benefits of funding net zero projects from community benefit income from a renewable energy project.

Case study

The 9CC Group

Project: The 9CC Group – the East Ayrshire Rural Coalfields Strategic Community Benefit project

Case study

Crossdykes wind farm

Technology: onshore wind

Showing information on Community Benefits

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