Community-owned solutions can ‘offer hope’ for future
Holyrood Notebook By Ariane Burgess
In recent years, the issue of local control over natural resources and development has become increasingly important across Scotland. While we all grapple with corporate exploitation and centralised decision-making, some communities stand out as beacons of empowerment and sustainable development. These communities offer valuable lessons for the rest of the country.
Today, many communities benefit from community-owned renewable energy projects. These projects generate clean energy and provide a steady income stream. This income is then reinvested into other community projects, creating a virtuous cycle of sustainable development that benefits the entire region. But, as many of the first-generation community-owned renewable projects reach the end of their leases and grid licences, there’s a risk that communities could be left high and dry.
I recently met with the First Minister to highlight my concern and the government is now taking steps to better support communities in repowering their renewable energy projects.
The success of community-owned renewable energy has sparked a wider movement of local ownership and control. Community development trusts are now taking on a diverse range of projects, from preserving cultural heritage to improving local infrastructure – often under-pinned by the reliable income literally generated by their energy generators.
In Caithness, Warmlie Cosy Community – supported by Caithness Voluntary Group and Ormlie Community Association – are making progress towards creating a community-owned district heat network to address fuel poverty, cold homes and high energy bills. The initiative is driven by local needs and aspirations, ensuring that development truly benefits the community while the strong foundation of local control and community empowerment provides a robust framework for addressing challenges.
Through community ownership, communities are able to develop tailored solutions that reflect their unique circumstances and values, rather than having to rely on one-size-fits-all approaches imposed from outside.
As Scotland continues to debate land reform and community empowerment, these communities stand as living examples of what can be achieved when people have a real say in their future. The success of community-owned renewable energy projects provides a model that can be replicated across Caithness to drive both economic development and the transition to clean energy.
Community projects like Warmlie show that an alternative to corporate-driven, extractive development is not only possible but can be highly successful. By prioritising local control, community ownership, and sustainable practices, they have created a model of development that benefits people and planet. Community Development Trusts across Caithness have shown that it's possible to generate economic prosperity while preserving natural and cultural heritage.
As we look to the future, ongoing innovations in renewable energy and community-driven development will undoubtedly continue to provide valuable lessons and inspiration. These communities serve as living laboratories for sustainable development, showing what's possible when local communities are given the power to shape their own destiny. In an era of global challenges, local solutions offer hope and a practical path forward for communities everywhere.
• Ariane Burgess is a Scottish Green MSP for the Highlands and Islands.