Community organisations in Scotland can now apply to the CARES Community Buildings Fund, a funding opportunity designed to reduce energy costs and support the transition to low‑carbon, resilient community facilities.
Delivered by Local Energy Scotland, the fund provides grants to help community groups install renewable technologies and energy‑efficiency measures in buildings they own or manage. The programme supports practical upgrades which reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve long‑term sustainability.
Applications are now open, and organisations are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
Eligible “core” measures include installing renewable technologies such as:
- air, ground or water source heat pumps
- heat network connections
- solar photovoltaic (PV) panels
- solar water heating systems
These installations must form the central element of any application.
In addition to these primary technologies listed above, organisations may also apply for “add‑on” measures such as:
- energy storage systems (eg. battery storage)
- insulation improvements
- secondary glazing
- draught‑proofing
- appropriate energy‑saving controls linked to the newly installed equipment
Whilst these “add‑on” components are welcomed, they must represent a minority of the total project cost.
Grants can cover up to 80% of eligible project costs, up to a maximum of £80,000. Applicants must provide at least 20% match-funding, and demonstrate that their project will contribute directly to decarbonising an existing, frequently used community building with high energy demand. All funded projects must be completed (with claims submitted) by Monday 15 March 2027.
Please note, buildings heated by gas, oil, coal or Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) can be supported only if the proposed changes will actively decarbonise the heating system as part of the project.
Due to the Scottish Election in May, grant offers and confirmation of wider scheme funding will not be issued until a new Government is in place and authorises the distribution of funds.
The deadline for applications is Saturday 31 October 2026.
Eligible applicants include constituted, non‑profit distributing community organisations, including charities, which operate for the benefit of a defined geographical community or faith group. Applicants must have appropriate governance approval from their Board or Trustees, and should have identified the required match funding.
Before applying, organisations must first read the fund guidance and submit an Expression of Interest (EOI). Full applications must then be completed through the Local Energy Scotland CARES online portal.
For further information, including how to submit an EOI, please visit the dedicated fund page (linked for your convenience).
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