Community input sought for Good Practice Principles for renewables

Written By Glenkens Hub

The Scottish Government’s Good Practice Principles for Community Benefits from Onshore Renewable Energy Developments is undergoing a refresh to ensure it is fit for the future.

Community Benefits from Renewables Survey

Now over 10 years old, the Good Practice Principles set clear national standards for developers as well as guidance for communities located near renewable energy development sites.

Following consultation last year with industry bodies, community groups and third sector organisations, which included the Glenkens and District Trust (GDT) and the 9 Community Councils Group (9CC), the new policy proposes that:

  • local groups should receive yearly payments of £6,000 per Megawatt (MW) of onshore wind capacity – up from £5,000 per MW – for the lifetime of a project;

  • solar projects should pay in the range of £700-£1000 per MW per year;

  • energy storage projects should pay least £150 per MW per year.

The proposal also includes improved guidance to support communities to maximise the long-term benefits of their funding, and a Community Benefit Peer Forum pilot scheme to help communities share expertise. A Working Paper detailing the proposal is available to read online or download here: https://www.gov.scot/publications/refreshing-good-practice-principles-community-benefits-onshore-renewable-energy-working-paper/

The community’s views are sought on four aspects of the refresh:

  • the technologies included in scope of the guide;

  • the community benefit fund levels;

  • governance and distribution of funds;

  • support of communities.

Take part in the survey here
Glenkens Hub
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