Twelve projects to create local, green energy solutions have been awarded a share of £2.6 million, as part of the Scottish Government’s Low Carbon Infrastructure Transition Programme.

Projects in Glencoe, Callander, Aviemore, Stromness and St Andrews were amongst those to be awarded a share of the funding.

Making the announcement, Paul Wheelhouse, Minister for Business, Innovation and Energy, said:

“The Scottish Government has set some of the most ambitious carbon reduction targets on the planet – exceeding the requirements of the Paris agreement - and is making excellent progress towards meeting them.

“We have also set our sights on eradicating fuel poverty – which is an unacceptable blight on too many households in Scotland in 2017 - as energy prices have risen steadily, at a time when wages have been depressed due to a weak UK economy and austerity.

“These twin challenges drive our ambition for  innovative local energy projects, such as those for which we are today announcing £2.6 million of funding, as these will provide many consumers, including in some of Scotland’s most remote areas, with an alternative, greener, and potentially cheaper energy source.

“The construction and maintenance of these projects will also have the added benefit of creating and sustaining jobs, and in doing so can bolster local economies.” 

10 projects received LCITP development support to produce Investment Grade Business Cases.

LCITP support of £550,000 has been awarded to these 10 projects, which will be matched by at least £550,000 from project partners.

Two projects received LCITP capital support of £1.95 million - match funded by Scottish Government District Heating Loan Fund.

Background

Stage 1 support (up to £100,000 per project) will focus on developing full, investment-ready business proposals. Projects must provide 50% match funding, business proposals funded by this support must be completed by March 2018.

Stage 2 support provides up to 50% capital (up to £5 million per project), stage 2 project must be commissioned by 31 December 2018.