Argyll and Bute Council is inviting residents, communities, businesses and organisations to have their say on new draft clean energy principles designed to maximise the benefits of energy developments across the area.
The draft principles bring together and update the council's existing guidance on community benefits from onshore renewables and its Renewable Energy Action Plan into a single framework. The document sets out how energy developers and the Council can work together to support local priorities and create long-term benefits for communities when projects are being undertaken in the local area.
The framework focuses on nine key themes:
- Housing and workforce accommodation
- Strategic economic infrastructure
- Transport infrastructure
- Community wellbeing and environmental stewardship
- Community wealth building
- Skills, education and training
- Strategic and local community benefit funds
- Tackling fuel poverty
- Innovation and collaboration
The principles have been developed in recognition of the ongoing role that renewable and clean energy projects play in Argyll and Bute, and the opportunities they can bring for communities, businesses and local services.
Feedback is sought on all proposals however the Council is particularly keen to hear views on the proposal for a new strategic wealth fund, supported by community benefit payments, and how it could help deliver the priorities of the Community Planning Partnership while ensuring the benefits of energy developments are shared across all communities.
The consultation is open now and runs until 20 November 2026. Feedback will be used to help refine the draft Clean Energy Principles before they are considered by the Council's Policy and Resources Committee next year.
The engagement is open to everyone but will be of particular interest to organisations involved in the energy sector, including renewable energy developers, community energy operators, supply chain businesses, community organisations and community councils.
Copies of the draft Clean Energy Principles and the response form are available on the Council website.
