We have published a new study which has identified the vast potential opportunities available from onshore wind through community benefits for the communities of the South of Scotland.
The full study is available to read here.
Key facts and figures
Significant opportunity
The South of Scotland study - produced for us by BiGGAR Economics - highlights an opportunity that could be transformative for the region - equivalent to more than six Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deals.
However, it is not guaranteed, with the scale of future funding available dependent on future developments, re-powering existing developments and on the specifics of individual community benefit agreements.
What are Community Benefits?
Community Benefits are voluntary arrangements offered by renewable energy businesses to communities located near renewable developments.
Community benefits provide an opportunity for communities to work with renewable energy businesses for the long-term benefit of the community.
They are a well-established, integral part of renewable energy developments and can represent a positive relationship between renewable energy developers and communities.
What now?
Alongside our partners Dumfries & Galloway and Scottish Borders councils, we are now looking at how best we can work with and support communities through our existing work in the region.
It is hoped this will help to ensure communities are able to maximise their opportunities arising from community benefit and future shared ownership.