Search

The Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES) is supporting community and faith organisations to install solar PV and battery storage in their buildings. This is a short-term pilot, funded by the Scottish Government and Great British Energy, with funds needing to be spent and claimed by 31 March 2026.Demand is expected to be high for this funding, with many communities already in a position to mobilise projects very quickly. Funding will be allocated on a first come first served basis. If you are developing a new project, read the guidance and self-assessment checklist carefully and prioritise seeking a quote if you think you are eligible.To be able to install within the pilot timescale, easier installation projects will be more suited to this funding. Therefore, while it is not a requirement, they suggest that the proposed project:- Is not in a conservation area or within the curtilage of a listed building.- Is under 50kW of solar PV.- Is on an easily accessible roof, which is built after 1930s (as the roof will be more likely to meet structural requirements).- Is not part of a more significant building renovation that would increase the risk of programme delays.

The Blackford Community Fund is a charitable fund to benefit residents of the Blackford Community Council area in Perth & Kinross local authority. The Fund has been created with a donation by Ochil Developments (the developer of the G West development near Blackford) to Blackford Community Council, and community benefit funds provided by EDF Power Solutions, owner of the Burnfoot Hill, Burnfoot North and Rhodders wind farms. The Fund is intended to be a lasting resource for the community of Blackford.The Fund's purpose is to support community groups and charities working in the Blackford Community Council area, providing grants for activities which:- Bring people together to build a sense of community- Celebrate and develop Blackford's musical and cultural heritage- Help older residents to stay connected- Improve the look and feel of the villageThe fund can support a wide variety of groups and projects. Applications that will benefit older residents of the community are particularly welcome.

Grants will be made for applications that benefit people in the Community by advancing community development by supporting local environmental, educational, amenity or other initiatives in the area.Funds applications which benefit the residents of the Community Council areas of Abbey St Bathans, Bonkyl & Preston, Duns, Gavinton, Fogo & Preston, and Lammermuir.