Highland Clean Power Scheme wins Outstanding Project Award at the Scottish Green Energy Awards

31st December 2024

The Highland Council is delighted to share that its Energy Efficient Scotland: Area Based Scheme has won the Outstanding Project Award at the Scottish Green Energy Awards.

Described by Scottish Renewables as a "pioneering clean power scheme", this £7 million project demonstrates the incredible impact that can be achieved through combined public and private sector investment.

Vice Convener and Chair of the Environment and Infrastructure Committee, Cllr Ken Gowans said: “By bringing together funding streams, we've been able to deliver a far greater impact on the lives of residents across the Highlands—tackling fuel poverty, improving homes, and supporting a just transition to cleaner, more sustainable energy systems.”

The project has significantly reduced energy consumption through fabric improvements, ensuring homes are better insulated, warmer, and more efficient. The Council then delivered energy efficiency solutions through the installation of 179 solar PV systems, 101 air source heat pumps, and battery storage. These measures not only lower household energy costs but also reduce carbon emissions, delivering immediate environmental and social benefits to some of the region’s most remote communities.

Cllr Gowans said: “This is however, only the first step in addressing the challenges Highland faces. An estimated 33% of Highland households are currently experiencing fuel poverty, with 22% living in extreme fuel poverty. Public sector funding alone cannot resolve these issues. To achieve the scale of change needed, we must continue to leverage the power of public and private sector collaboration.

“We warmly welcome opportunities to explore future partnerships with other developers in the region, building on the example set by SSE Renewables, whose early support has made a significant impact. By working together, we can scale up our efforts to deliver environmental and social benefits that transform lives and accelerate a just transition for Highland communities.”

He added: “I’m incredibly proud of the entire team for their unwavering belief in this vision. Their dedication, alongside the invaluable support of SSE Renewables and Union Technical, has helped us deliver an innovative and impactful project that sets the standard for what can be achieved through partnership and ambition. This award is a powerful recognition of what’s possible when we work together.”

As we look ahead, we remain committed to expanding this impact, reducing energy consumption, and creating a greener, fairer, and more sustainable future for all Highland residents.