A new report reveals the extensive community benefits being delivered by onshore wind projects across the UK, with Scotland taking a leading role in deployment and funding.

The report, titled 'Community Benefit in Action: Case Studies from the Onshore Wind Sector', is a collaborative publication by Scottish Renewables and RenewableUK, offering the first UK-wide examination of effective community engagement in the sector.

The study highlights numerous standout examples of how onshore wind is generating more than just green power. Case studies within the report demonstrate concrete benefits such as the creation of local jobs, support for regional tourism, enhancement of biodiversity, and the establishment of strong community engagement practices.

Given Scotland's significantly higher level of onshore wind deployment, the majority of the featured case studies focus on Scottish projects, complemented by examples from England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Megan Amundson, Head of Onshore and Consenting at Scottish Renewables, commented on the findings: "This report shows how onshore wind goes beyond generating clean energy, it powers real change in communities. From creating local jobs and boosting tourism to supporting biodiversity and strong community engagement, it highlights what great practice looks in Scotland and across the UK."


Ms Amundson emphasised Scotland's strong track record: "Scotland's renewable energy industry is proud of its record on community benefit funding, delivered at a scale unmatched anywhere else. We're committed to building on that success through fresh, innovative approaches but this can only happen if the projects expected to deliver transformational support for communities are financially viable."

The report comes as the industry looks to further maximise benefits from the burgeoning onshore wind sector. "As Scotland accelerates towards a cleaner energy future, it's vital that we secure a lasting and strategic legacy for local communities. Delivering the current pipeline of onshore wind projects represents a major economic opportunity—bringing high-value jobs, supporting the supply chain and attracting significant inward investment across the country," Ms Amundson added.

Scottish Renewables has pledged to continue its close collaboration with both the Scottish and UK Governments to refine community benefit funding models. This collaborative effort aims to ensure that future schemes effectively drive progress for both local communities and the wider industry, fostering a more sustainable future.

According to a RenewableUK survey cited within the report, communities across the UK currently receive an estimated £75 million per year from onshore Community Benefit Funds (CBFs) alone, with over £55 million of this flowing into Scottish communities. If the UK achieves its ambition of 37GW of onshore wind by 2035, this annual contribution could rise to £185 million across the UK.