At Sureserve Energy Services, we’re committed to helping communities across Scotland take control of their energy future. One of the keyways we support this is through the Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES) — a Scottish Government initiative designed to empower local and community ownership of renewable energy projects.
What is CARES?
CARES was set up to encourage and accelerate the development of renewable energy projects that are locally or community owned. Whether it’s a solar installation on a village hall, a community wind turbine, or shared ownership in a larger energy project, CARES provides the tools, funding, and expert advice to help make it happen.
The scheme is delivered by Local Energy Scotland and offers a complete support package to help community groups, charities, and eligible organisations explore and deliver renewable energy projects that benefit local people.
How Does CARES Help?
Through a combination of loan finance, grant funding, and independent specialist advice, CARES is helping to deliver Scotland’s wider Energy Strategy and Heat in Buildings Strategy. It aims to achieve 2GW of community and locally owned renewable energy by 2030.
Since 2010, the impact has been significant:
- Over £58 million awarded in funding
- More than 600 renewable energy projects supported
- Advice provided to over 900 organisations
This support ranges from early-stage feasibility studies to full project delivery — and Sureserve Energy Services is here to help you navigate every step.
What Kind of Projects Can CARES Support?
CARES funding and advice is available for a wide variety of projects, including:
- Installing renewable technologies such as heat pumps or solar panels in community buildings
- Exploring shared ownership opportunities in commercial energy projects
- Creating community benefit schemes linked to larger energy developments
- Conducting feasibility assessments and securing planning permissions
Whatever stage your project is at, CARES makes it easier to move forward — and with our expertise at Sureserve Energy Services, we can help ensure your project is delivered efficiently and sustainably.
How We Can Support You
At Sureserve Energy Services, we work closely with organisations looking to benefit from CARES. Our team can:
- Help you identify the best renewable solutions for your building or project
- Assist with the CARES application process
- Deliver the technical installation and support needed to bring your renewable energy project to life
- Ensure long-term performance and maintenance of your chosen system
We understand the challenges community groups face — and we’re here to make the process as simple and successful as possible.
Interested in Starting a Project?
If you’re part of a community organisation, charity, or eligible group in Scotland and are interested in exploring renewable energy options, CARES could be the opportunity you’ve been looking for.
Get in touch with us today to find out how we can help turn your energy ambitions into reality.