Tom Arthur, SNP MSP for Renfrewshire South, has highlighted the impact that the Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES) is having on community renewable schemes in Renfrewshire.
CARES helps people across Scotland to benefit from the energy transition by advising and funding businesses and communities in local and small-scale renewables.
Since 2010, the SNP-led Scottish Government scheme has provided over £61 million to over 800 projects – with 311 organisations receiving support in 2023, including 2 in Renfrewshire.
This scheme has encouraged local and community ownership of renewable energy projects across Scotland, helping to maximise the benefits of renewable energy systems, whether commercially or community owned.
Commenting, Tom Arthur said:
“Empowering communities in Renfrewshire South to benefit from the transition to renewable energy will be vital in our journey to reach net zero and I welcome this Scottish Government investment.
“Supporting small local projects, though financing, grant funding and specialist advice, has helped so far deliver 58.6 MW of renewable energy across Scotland so far.
“Of the over 300 projects currently progression across Scotland, it is welcome that here in Renfrewshire 2 organisations are currently being supported.
“In contrast with an unambitious and chaotic Westminster government, the SNP is taking real action to support everyone in Scotland benefit from the transition to renewable energy.”