Communities across Scotland are set to benefit directly from a substantial funding injection into local renewable energy projects from the publicly-owned company, Great British Energy (GB Energy).

GB Energy has increased its dedicated funding for the UK's devolved nations by £12 million, raising the total allocation to over £21 million, as part of its commitment to back over 1,000 community and local energy projects over the next five years.

The Scottish Government is receiving an additional £5.5 million from GB Energy. This new allocation, when combined with existing Scottish Government investment, is already helping to finance 23 new projects announced today. Overall this year, the combined efforts have resulted in 71 funding offers being made to community schemes across Scotland, supporting diverse projects ranging from a community solar farm on the Isle of Arran to wind farms in Aberdeenshire.

Climate Action and Energy Secretary Gillian Martin underscored the importance of empowering local groups: "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."

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The funding aligns with the government's Local Power Plan, designed to ensure that the benefits of the clean power mission—such as energy security, economic growth, and job creation—are realised at a local level.

Dan McGrail, CEO of Great British Energy, whose headquarters are in Aberdeen, highlighted the national strategy: "Communities are at the heart of our clean energy future. By increasing our support for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, Great British Energy is ensuring that communities benefit directly from the transition to renewables – through lower bills and greater energy security. This funding will help unlock hundreds of projects that will not only provide clean energy to communities but also help accelerate our mission to make the UK a clean energy superpower."

Last week, GB Energy detailed its commitment to delivering 15 GW of clean energy generation and storage capacity, alongside mobilising £15 billion of private finance, as part of a mission to regain control over Britain's energy supply and insulate consumers from global fossil fuel price fluctuations.