Details

The Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES) supports communities to engage with, participate in and benefit from the energy transition to net zero emissions.

CARES can support a wide range of projects including installing renewable technologies in community buildings, community benefits and shared ownership. The CARES Development Fund is designed to help communities take that first step on their community energy journey. First steps include:

• Raising awareness of your energy project idea.
• Completing an options appraisal to understand the types of projects you might carry out.
• Completing a first step feasibility study to see if your idea might work.
• Funding for some staff time to progress your idea.

To be eligible for this fund you should be at an early stage in developing your own community energy project or have an opportunity to investigate shared ownership of a commercially owned renewable energy project. This fund is all about getting started for either community-owned renewable energy projects or investigating shared ownership (where community groups make an investment in a commercially owned renewable energy project).

Funding must be drawn down by Tuesday 17 March 2026.

Premium information is available exclusively to SCVO members and supporters

Geographical areas funded: Scotland

Fund type

Type of funding:

Grant, Other resources

Type of cost:

Capital, Revenue, Core costs

Fund award sizes

Maximum:

Premium information

Notes on award amounts:

Premium information

Who can apply

Scottish constituted non-profit distributing organisations can apply – eligible structures include development trusts, climate action hubs, community energy groups, community councils, etc. See eligibility criteria on website.

When to apply

Now open. Funding is open on a rolling basis until the end of February 2026 or until fully allocated.

Next deadline: 28 Feb 2026

How to apply

Complete an application form on the CARES website, or contact your local development office for more help. Details of local officers are available on the CARES website.

Contact information

Activites funded: Community development and regeneration Community facilities Environment Energy Climate action

Beneficiaries funded: Local communities

Report inaccuracy

Last reviewed about 9 hours ago