Renewable Energy Fund Grants

You can apply for a Renewable Energy Fund or Clyde Wind Farm grant through our online system. The steps below explain what to expect at each stage and what information you need to provide. You can ask us questions at any time through Grantvisor.

Stage 1: Enquiry

Start by registering your organisation on Grantvisor. Once logged in, complete a short enquiry form telling us what your project is and why you need funding.

Submit the form using the blue button. You will receive an email confirming we have your enquiry and telling you which officer will support you.

Stage 2: Initial assessment

Your project officer will review your enquiry and may:

• ask for more information or offer guidance
• confirm you are not eligible and explain why
• confirm you can move to a full application

Stage 3: Full application

If your enquiry meets the fund criteria, the full application form will unlock on Grantvisor. You must complete every section before submitting. You can upload documents and photos at any point.

You will be asked for:

• contact details
• organisation details, including your constitution and latest accounts
• a summary of your project
• evidence of local need and support
• how the project links to fund priorities
• full project costs, VAT and any match funding
• quotes (three where possible, or two with justification)
• your organisation’s bank details
• any supporting documents such as letters of support, photos, consultation results or drawings

Applications are scored against clear criteria, including need, value for money, equal participation, community involvement and sustainability.

Stage 4: Submission

When all sections are complete, select the blue submit button. Your application will be locked and reviewed. Your officer will contact you if anything needs to be updated.

Stage 5: Assessment

Officers score your application. Different processes apply for grants below and above £20,000.

Stage 6: Decision and next steps

If your project is approved, you will receive an offer letter and acceptance form.

If it is refused, we will explain the reasons. You can only reapply if you make significant changes.

Payments

You can request an advance payment of up to 50% of your grant. The rest is paid after you submit invoices, a claim form and a progress report.

General conditions

• you must have all legal permissions in place
• VAT is only funded if you cannot reclaim it.
• match funding must be confirmed before work starts.
• work must not begin before your grant is awarded.
• funding is not available for work already completed.
• projects must be open and accessible to all.
• if your project has not started within six months, we may withdraw the award.

Data protection, equal opportunities and Freedom of Information

We use the information you provide to assess and monitor your grant. We may share information with organisations involved in assessments, audits, fraud prevention or monitoring.

Your organisation must have an equal opportunities approach built into your constitution and project.

Information may be released under the Freedom of Information law unless exempt.