Renewable Energy Fund Grants

The Renewable Energy Fund (REF) supports community projects within 10km of participating renewable energy developments in South Lanarkshire.

There are currently 44 participating wind farms contributing around £5.2 million each year to support local communities. The amount of funding available depends on the size of the development and how close your project is to a participating site.

The fund supports projects that improve communities, strengthen the local economy and enhance quality of life.

What funding is available?

Main Renewable Energy Fund

For projects requiring more than £20,000.

• grants are usually available for up to 75% of eligible project costs
• up to 100% funding may be available in some higher-funded areas
• applications are considered by the council's Community and Enterprise Committee

View grant deadlines and decision dates.

Small Grant Scheme

For projects requiring less than £20,000.

• grants of up to 100% of eligible costs may be available
• funding is available for community-based projects
• awards are subject to available funds

What can be funded?

We can support:

Capital projects

Projects that create, improve or maintain community assets, such as:

• buildings
• land
• community facilities
• one-off improvement projects

Revenue projects

Projects with ongoing costs that deliver community benefits, including:

• staff costs
• heating and lighting
• administration costs
• consumables
• small equipment

Funding may be available for up to three years, depending on the project and available funds.

Projects must have a clear purpose and outcomes and an exit plan. Funding cannot be used for routine operating costs that are not linked to a specific project.

Project requirements

Your project must:

• support Renewable Energy Fund priorities
• demonstrate clear community benefits and value for money
• show how local people have been involved
• support local community action plans where these exist

If funding is requested for a post, you must provide a job description.

Funding themes

Projects must support at least one of the following themes:

• Stronger Communities
• Prosperous Communities
• Healthy and Active Communities
• Sustainable Environmental Communities

Projects that deliver on the 7 rural area priorities are more likely to be funded. Find out more about themes and investment priorities.

Who can apply?

Applications will be accepted from:

• public organisations and agencies
• partnerships, trusts and co-operatives
• community groups and associations
• social enterprises
• not-for-profit organisations

Applicants must be located within or provide clear benefits to communities within the eligible areas of a participating renewable energy development.

Applications from outside the eligible area may be considered if the people benefiting live within an eligible area and there is evidence of community support for the project.

What cannot be funded?

We cannot fund:

• projects that do not provide equal access and opportunities
• projects that do not benefit communities within 10km of a participating wind farm
• political activities or the promotion of religion
• repayment of loans or debts
• costs that have already been incurred
• activities that take place before a funding decision has been made

How to apply

Before applying, submit an expression of interest outlining:

• your organisation
• your project idea
• estimated project costs

About the fund

The Renewable Energy Fund is made up of contributions from renewable energy developments across South Lanarkshire.

Since 2004, more than £24 million has been awarded to community organisations through the fund, helping deliver projects that support local people, communities and the economy.