The Highland Council’s Energy Efficient Scotland: Area Based Scheme has been honoured with the Outstanding Project Award at the Scottish Green Energy Awards.
This £7 million initiative has been hailed as a “pioneering clean power scheme” by Scottish Renewables, showcasing the transformative potential of combined public and private sector investment.
Vice Convener and Chair of the Environment and Infrastructure Committee, Councillor Ken Gowans, commended the project’s success.
“By merging various funding streams, we’ve delivered greater impact for Highland residents, tackling fuel poverty, improving homes, and driving a shift to sustainable energy systems,” he said.
The project has dramatically improved energy efficiency through measures like enhanced insulation, making homes warmer and more efficient.
It also delivered 179 solar PV systems, 101 air source heat pumps, and battery storage units, reducing energy costs and carbon emissions.
These efforts have brought immediate environmental and social benefits, particularly to remote Highland communities.
Councillor Gowans highlighted the pressing challenges that remain.
“Around 33% of Highland households face fuel poverty, with 22% in extreme fuel poverty,” he noted.
He stressed the importance of continued collaboration, adding:
“Public sector funding alone won’t solve this.
“We need strong partnerships with developers like SSE Renewables, whose early support made a crucial difference.”
The project’s achievements set a high standard for sustainable development and highlight the power of innovative partnerships.
“I’m incredibly proud of our team’s dedication and vision,” said Councillor Gowans.
He also expressed gratitude to partners like SSE Renewables and Union Technical for their vital contributions.
Looking ahead, the Council remains committed to expanding the scheme’s impact.
Their focus is on reducing energy consumption, lowering costs, and fostering a greener, fairer future for Highland residents.
The Outstanding Project Award is a testament to what can be achieved through ambition, innovation, and teamwork.
