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 RHIFA’s chill and ice making facility
Local Energy Scotland is a consortium that administers and manage the Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES).
About us
Latest Post Energy Saving Trust re-awarded contract to continue managing the Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme

Showing information on Local Energy Plans

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.

Resource

Energy masterplans

Part of our ‘Local Energy Plans and beyond’ resource. This section looks at energy masterplans.

Resource

Heat Network Zoning

Part of our ‘Local Energy Plans and beyond’ resource. This section looks at Heat Network Zoning and local energy plans.

Resource

Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategies (LHEES)

Part of our ‘Local Energy Plans and beyond’ resource. This section looks at Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategies (LHEES).

Resource

Local Energy Plans and beyond

Our resource looks at how communities can work with local authorities for a net zero future by developing a local energy plan.

Resource

Community Benefits: example interview task and questions for Community Action Planning commissioning

An example of interview task and questions for Community Action Planning commissioning.

Resource

Scoring sheet for tenders received to develop a Community Action Plan

A scoring sheet for tenders received to develop a Community Action Plan.

Resource

Planning

A guide to planning your renewable energy project.

Resource

Guide to developing community-led local energy planning

A guide to developing community-led local energy plans for communities and other stakeholders.

Resource

Innovative energy systems

An overview of four examples of innovative electricity projects funded under the Local Energy Challenge Fund.

Case study

Oban Local Energy Plan

Oban is a remote small town on the west coast of Scotland with a population of over 8,600 people. It acts as a local transport hub with ferry, train a...

Case study

Barra and Vatersay Local Energy Plan

Barra and Vatersay are two very remote islands at the south end to the Outer Hebrides with a combined population of over 1,300 people.

Showing information on Local Energy Plans

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