Projects which generate revenue

There is a growing awareness of rising energy costs, the problems of climate change and security of energy supply amongst communities in Scotland.  With this awareness, communities are growing increasingly keen to find ways in which they can develop projects which will bring long-term benefits to their local community in the longer-term and provide a sustainable future for all who live there.    

Community Energy Scotland is working with around 30 communities in Scotland who are developing their own community-wind farms.  The  first community-owned wind farm in Scotland is on the Isle of Gigha where islanders have developed, and now run, their own wind farm. The three turbines, known as ‘The dancing ladies’, are providing electricity and a significant income for the island.  The project’s robust financial model is being replicated by other communities in Scotland.

The first steps in considering developing your own community wind project are

1. Define the purpose of your project - is to generate revenue to invest in your community's development?
2. Define the type of project - stick to better-established technologies for your  community project ie. wind, biomass, hydro
3. Plan for how your community will benefit - prepare an investment plan
4. Define the scale of your project - site, planning, grid access etc
5. Be aware of timescale - at least 2 years to develop, long-term project

Community Energy Scotland has drawn up a guide entitled "Step by Step Guide to Financing a Renewable Energy Project" outlining these steps in more detail and providing case studies of other communities who are currently developing their own wind projects.  To order a copy, please contact your local development officer or call Community Energy Scotland main office on 01349 860120.

Community Energy Scotland organised a training event in Glasgow this February (2010) for groups interested and embarking on revenue generating renewable technology projects - please follow the link below for more information and presentations from the event.

http://www.communityenergyscotland.org.uk/news.asp?intent=details&id=70