Support for community organisations
Communities are at the heart of social and economic development
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There are seven off grid electricity networks in Scotland.
These are run and managed by the island communities in Canna, Eigg, Rum, Muck, Fair Isle, Foula and the west coast peninsula communities of Knoydart and Scoraig.
The networks provide services for around 500 permanent residents, growing to around 800 in the summer months, and to thousands of island visitors.
Working together as a consortium, they are one of 26 successful bids from across Europe to become part of the EU Clean Energy for Islands initiative.
It supports communities look at how they might decarbonise heat, transport and electricity supplies, serving as a long-term framework for action, identifying challenges and opportunities.
We're working with them, and their collaborative efforts are also being supported by Scottish Government, Highland Council, Shetland Islands Council and University of the Highlands and Islands.
As part of the EU Clean Islands programme the consortium of Highlands and Islands communities are working together on the best ways to deliver decarbonisation for their communities.
A successful off grid networking event with sector specialists and communities in December 2019 provided an opportunity to collectively look at opportunities and solutions in priority areas - decarbonisation of heat, transport, electricity and how to make smarter use of energy.
See our press release for the latest on how the communities are getting on in their EU Clean Energy for Islands work.
Action to combat climate change.
inhabited islands in EU
transition indicators to success in EU Clean Islands assessment
increase in renewable generation in Scotland 2017/18
As our communities begin the journey to net zero, hear more about the key priorities.
There is an opportunity for Government and its agencies to ensure that any funding and support programmes take into consideration the specific needs of communities such as these.Melanie Macrae, HIE Senior Development Manager
View this report for an overview of energy systems across island communities in our region.
CES is a registered charity providing practical help to communities on green energy development and energy conservation.
CES websiteLES manage CARES - the Scottish Government's Community and Renewable Energy Scheme. We give communities, businesses and other organisations advice and funding in all aspects of local, renewable energy.
LES websiteIf these communities have inspired you, find out how we can help you in the Highlands and Islands.
Communities are at the heart of social and economic development
How we can help businesses with a social and economic impact
Increasing the role of communities in the ownership and management of land and assets
We have a large portfolio of land, premises and development opportunities available to help businesses and communities across our region.