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 Alford and District Men’s Shed
Local Energy Scotland is a consortium that administers and manage the Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES).
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Latest Post Opening the door to local energy schemes – complex site classes

Showing information on Onshore Wind

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

Case study

Binn Eco Park Wind Farm

Technology: community shared ownership of onshore wind at Binn Eco Park

Resource

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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