Hundreds of projects bid to cut emissions

MORE than 600 community energy schemes are being developed across Scotland, saving thousands of tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions.

Projects range from installing wind turbines and solar panels to wood-fired boilers and heat pumps in communities from Galloway to Shetland.

The Scottish Government launched the Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (Cares) last April, with 8 million allocated for the first year as part of a commitment to cut carbon emissions by 42 per cent by 2020.

Cares projects approved so far this year will save about 2,370 tonnes of annually, equivalent to the total emissions from 430 homes.

Energy minister Jim Mather said communities were becoming much more informed about energy matters.

"The Cares scheme is unlocking real interest in Scottish communities, who can see the potential for improving their facilities."