A total of 23 local initiatives across Scotland, including projects on the Isle of Mull, the V&A Dundee museum, and King's Church in Aberdeen, are set to receive a portion of £1.8 million dedicated to advancing renewable energy generation.

This financial backing, provided through the Community and Renewable Energy Scheme's (CARES) Community Energy Generation Growth Fund, will allow community organisations to create their own power sources, such as solar installations and wind turbines. Crucially, the fund also gives successful applicants the capability to earn revenue by selling any surplus energy back to the grid.

The fund is supported by contributions from both the Scottish Government and Great British Energy. Grants will cover equipment, installation, and feasibility studies for a variety of projects, which include:

• Emmaus Glasgow – installation of renewable energy systems at the homeless centre.

• Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen – decarbonising the university's sports hall.

• Saints Community Football Club, St Johnstone – installing Solar PV energy generation technology.

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The Community Energy Generation Growth Fund has been highly active this year, issuing 71 funding offers in total, amounting to more than £7.3 million invested in community energy schemes across Scotland.

Speaking ahead of the CARES conference, Climate Action and Energy Secretary Gillian Martin highlighted the central role of these schemes: "Community-led energy projects are at the heart of Scotland's journey to net zero. By empowering local groups to generate their own clean energy with local solutions, we are not only cutting emissions but also reducing costs and creating resilient communities. These projects show what can be achieved when people come together with a shared vision for a sustainable future. "This funding is giving communities the tools and confidence to take control of their own energy needs, keep money circulating locally, and build a fairer, greener economy. "Scotland's transition to net zero must be inclusive and fair, and community energy is a vital part of ensuring that everyone benefits from the opportunities of a clean energy future."

UK Government Minister for Energy Michael Shanks commented on the support: "Great British Energy is empowering communities in Scotland to take a stake in their own energy. "This is our clean energy superpower mission in action – putting communities in the driving seat of energy generation and making sure working people and local businesses profit."

Local Energy Scotland Manager Chris Morris congratulated the recipients: "It's great to see more community groups and charities developing energy projects and we'd like to congratulate all our successful applicants. We know how much effort goes into developing these inspiring proposals and we're looking forward to working with them to deliver lasting impact - locally and across the country.

"This is a crucial time for community energy projects in Scotland. Through CARES, we're helping local groups turn ambition into action, creating projects that not only reduce carbon emissions but also deliver long-term social and economic benefits for communities."