Deadline: 15-Sep-2026
The Achlachan Wind Farm Community Fund provides grants for community projects and development initiatives benefiting communities in the Halkirk & District Community Council area of Highland. The fund supports activities that improve local services, employment, skills, culture, environment, and connectivity.
Eligible community groups can apply for grants of up to £10,000, with around £30,000 available annually throughout the expected 25-year lifespan of the wind farm.
What Is the Achlachan Wind Farm Community Fund?
The Achlachan Wind Farm Community Fund is a grant programme that supports local community projects in the Halkirk & District Community Council area of Highland.
The fund is provided by Whirlwind Renewables, the developer of Achlachan Wind Farm.
It aims to help communities create long-term benefits through:
- Community development
- Improved facilities and services
- Employment opportunities
- Skills development
- Environmental projects
- Cultural and heritage activities
Funding Available
The fund provides approximately £30,000 per year in community funding.
Key funding details include:
- Grants available up to £10,000 per project
- Funding continues throughout the expected 25-year life of the wind farm
- Annual funding amount is index-linked
The programme supports projects that create sustainable benefits for local residents.
Purpose of the Fund
The Achlachan Wind Farm Community Fund focuses on strengthening communities by supporting projects that improve quality of life.
Priority areas include:
- Developing local services and facilities
- Creating and sustaining employment
- Increasing skills and knowledge
- Protecting culture, heritage, and the environment
- Improving access and connectivity
Priority Areas Supported
Community Services and Facilities
The fund supports projects that improve local spaces and services.
Examples include:
- Community facilities
- Local improvement projects
- Shared resources
- Public benefit initiatives
These projects help create stronger and more connected communities.
Employment and Skills Development
The programme supports initiatives that improve local opportunities.
Eligible projects may focus on:
- Job creation
- Training opportunities
- Skills development
- Knowledge sharing
These activities help strengthen the local economy.
Culture, Heritage, and Environment
The fund supports projects that protect and enhance local identity and natural resources.
Examples include:
- Heritage preservation
- Cultural activities
- Environmental improvements
- Conservation projects
- Better access to natural areas
Projects should help maintain and improve local surroundings.
Transport and Connectivity
The fund also supports projects that help communities stay connected.
This may include:
- Improved access
- Community transport initiatives
- Connectivity projects
- Services that reduce isolation
Who Can Apply?
The fund is open to eligible community organisations working for public benefit.
Applicants must generally be:
- Charitable organisations
- Constituted not-for-profit groups
- Community organisations
Projects must benefit communities within the Halkirk Community Council area.
Location Requirements
Priority is given to projects located within a four-kilometre radius of Achlachan Wind Farm.
However, organisations outside this area may also be considered if they can demonstrate a clear benefit for residents within the fund area.
Application Requirements
Applicants must show that their project:
- Addresses a genuine local need
- Has community support
- Creates meaningful benefits
- Uses funding responsibly
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Local consultation about the project need
- Consideration of other funding sources
- Appropriate use of local suppliers where possible
- Commitment to sustainable development
Sustainability Expectations
The fund encourages projects that reduce environmental impact.
Applicants should consider:
- Reducing carbon footprints
- Minimising environmental harm
- Using sustainable approaches
- Supporting long-term community resilience
Projects with clear sustainability benefits may be viewed positively.
How to Apply for the Achlachan Wind Farm Community Fund
Follow these steps:
- Check eligibility:
- Confirm your organisation benefits the Halkirk Community Council area
- Ensure your group is a suitable not-for-profit organisation
- Review whether your project matches the fund priorities
- Develop your project proposal:
Include:
- Project description
- Community need
- Expected outcomes
- Budget information
- Environmental considerations
- Explore additional funding:
Applicants should identify:
- Other possible funding sources
- Partnership opportunities
- Local contributions
- Submit your application:
Applications can be submitted during available funding rounds.
Multiple Applications and Grants
Organisations have flexibility when applying.
Rules include:
- Groups may submit applications for more than one project in a funding round
- Organisations may receive more than one grant in a year
- Previous grants must meet monitoring requirements before further awards are approved
Why the Fund Matters
Community funding from renewable energy projects can help create lasting local benefits.
The Achlachan Wind Farm Community Fund helps by:
- Supporting grassroots initiatives
- Improving community facilities
- Encouraging local innovation
- Strengthening skills and employment
- Protecting local heritage and nature
It allows communities to invest in projects that reflect local priorities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants should avoid:
- Applying for projects outside the fund area without explaining local benefit
- Failing to show community consultation
- Requesting funding without a clear budget
- Ignoring sustainability considerations
- Not explaining long-term impact
Strong applications should clearly demonstrate community value and practical outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who provides the Achlachan Wind Farm Community Fund?
The fund is provided by Whirlwind Renewables, the developer of Achlachan Wind Farm.
2. How much funding can projects receive?
Eligible community projects can receive grants of up to £10,000.
3. Who can apply for funding?
Charities, community groups, and constituted not-for-profit organisations benefiting communities in the Halkirk Community Council area can apply.
4. Are projects outside the immediate wind farm area eligible?
Yes. Organisations outside the area may be considered if they can show clear benefits for residents within the fund area.
5. What types of projects are supported?
The fund supports community facilities, employment, skills development, culture, heritage, environment, transport, and connectivity projects.
6. Can organisations apply for multiple projects?
Yes. Organisations can submit multiple applications and may receive more than one grant per year, subject to monitoring requirements.
7. Does the fund support environmentally friendly projects?
Yes. The fund encourages sustainable projects that reduce environmental impact and carbon footprints.
Conclusion
The Achlachan Wind Farm Community Fund provides long-term financial support for communities in the Halkirk & District area, helping local organisations deliver projects that improve services, skills, employment, culture, and environmental outcomes.
With grants of up to £10,000 and annual funding available throughout the wind farm’s lifespan, the programme helps communities create sustainable and meaningful local change.
For more information, visit Foundation Scotland.
