Communities across Scotland are set to receive a significant boost in local investment following new proposals published on 18 February 2026.

The Scottish Government is recommending an update to the national community benefit guidance, increasing the suggested yearly voluntary contribution for onshore wind developments from £5,000 to £6,000 per Megawatt (MW).

The refreshed "Good Practice Principles" aim to ensure that local areas hosting renewable infrastructure see a tangible, long-lasting legacy. Last year alone, approximately £30 million in voluntary benefits was distributed to community groups across the country, supporting local priorities such as home energy efficiency, apprenticeship schemes, and affordable housing projects.

In a move to reflect the diversifying energy market, the new proposals also introduce specific recommended rates for other technologies:

• Solar Projects: A new suggested range of £700–£1,000 per MW per year.

• Battery Storage: A recommended level of at least £150 per MW per year.

• Community Peer Forum: A pilot initiative run by Local Energy Scotland to help communities share expertise and maximise fund value.

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Energy Secretary Gillian Martin noted that the updated figures represent a balanced approach, serving community needs while acknowledging the market challenges developers have faced in recent years.

Energy Secretary Gillian Martin said: "For more than 10 years, Scotland has led the way in establishing the provision of community benefits as a common and expected practice across our renewables sector. This has led to communities and energy developers working together to deliver tangible and long-lasting legacy benefits for local areas – along with the wider benefits of local jobs, supply chain businesses and growing local economies. The updated proposals outlined today seek to strike a balanced approach to future fund levels which continue to serve communities well while reflecting the market challenges for developers over recent years. We will continue to engage with communities and the energy sector to help refine these proposals ahead of developing our final updated Good Practice Principles later this year."

The 9 Community Councils (9CC) Group, which manages strategic funds in East Ayrshire, has welcomed the focus on local decision-making within the new framework.

Stephen McCarron, Chief Operating Officer at the 9 Community Councils Group, said: "The 9CC Group warmly welcome the significant updates to the Good Practice Principles and are delighted that it adopts our key asks for communities to be at the heart of the decision making regarding the funding and delivery support for local and strategic priorities. It's an excellent document; comprehensive and clear on best practice while striking fair balance on the interests of developers and communities. A partnership approach is critical to creating a lasting legacy for our communities and whilst we will continue to promote a collaborative and wider approach in terms of communities working together, we are pleased that there is a clear distinction between those who make local decisions on funding and those who administer the fund, that avoids the risk of self interest undermining the greater good for the wider community."