Scotland is set to receive nearly £5 million in funding to support the development of community-based renewable energy projects. The funding, provided by Great British Energy and the UK Government, will help roll out new clean energy infrastructure, including hydropower, onshore wind, and solar power, across the country.
The funding will be administered by the Scottish Government through its Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES), which promotes local and community ownership of renewable energy projects. The projects are expected to provide clean power and create jobs for communities in Scotland.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband highlighted the significance of the funding, saying: “Together with Great British Energy, we’re putting power back into the hands of the Scottish people by giving communities a stake in their energy supply and ensuring they can reap the benefits. This is our clean energy superpower mission in action, with lower bills and energy security for our country.”
The investment marks the first major project for Great British Energy, a government-owned company, and is a key step in the UK Government’s broader “Plan for Change,” aimed at reducing energy bills and promoting sustainability. The company’s efforts will support local renewable projects, providing economic growth while lowering energy costs for households.
UK Government Scottish Secretary Ian Murray added, “The first funding from Great British Energy will benefit communities across Scotland. Working alongside the Scottish Government, we are backing local clean energy projects to help bring bills down while creating economic growth across the country.”
Juergen Maier, Chair of Great British Energy, also emphasized the potential impact, stating: “This funding will roll out clean, homegrown energy projects, crowd in investment, and create job opportunities across Scotland.”
The initiative is part of ongoing efforts to foster a cleaner, more sustainable energy future while providing economic benefits to communities in Scotland.
