Deadline: 30-Aug-2026
The Binn Wind Turbine Community Fund supports community projects in parts of Fife and Perth & Kinross using funding generated from wind energy profits. It provides grants for initiatives that improve wellbeing, strengthen community facilities, reduce inequality, and promote resilient and sustainable local communities. Eligible groups in designated Community Council areas can apply for funding to support equipment, staffing, activities, and infrastructure improvements.
Binn Wind Turbine Community Fund (Community Energy Funding Initiative — Scotland)
The Binn Wind Turbine Community Fund is a long-term community benefit funding program created to support local development in communities near the Binn EcoPark Wind Farm. It is delivered by Our Community Energy (OCE), a community benefit society formed through collaboration with Green Cat Renewables.
The fund ensures that revenue generated from wind energy is reinvested into surrounding communities to support social, environmental, and economic wellbeing.
Core Objectives of the Fund
Building Safe and Resilient Communities
- Support safe and cohesive community environments
- Strengthen local resilience and social stability
- Encourage community participation and engagement
Improving Community Facilities and Infrastructure
- Maintain and develop community buildings and assets
- Support refurbishment and upgrades of local facilities
- Enhance access to shared public spaces
Reducing Inequality
- Address social and economic disparities in local areas
- Support disadvantaged or vulnerable groups
- Improve access to essential community services
Promoting Health and Wellbeing
- Encourage healthy lifestyles and wellbeing initiatives
- Support mental and physical health activities
- Strengthen community-based wellbeing programs
Funding Source and Governance
Fund Operator
- Managed by Our Community Energy (OCE)
- Established with support from Green Cat Renewables
Funding Mechanism
- Generated through profits from two community-owned wind turbines
- Distributed across four Community Council areas
Long-Term Commitment
- Fund operates for approximately 25 years
- Annual funding varies based on financial performance of OCE
Eligible Community Areas
Funding supports projects in the following areas:
Perth & Kinross
- Glenfarg
- Abernethy & District
Fife
- Auchtermuchty
- Strathmiglo
Projects must directly benefit residents in these communities.
Eligible Applicants
- Community groups
- Local organisations
- Charities (not mandatory)
- Informal groups meeting eligibility criteria
Key Requirement
- Projects must demonstrate clear benefit to eligible communities
- Organisations outside the area may apply if strong local benefit is proven
Eligible Activities and Costs
The fund supports a wide range of community-focused activities, including:
Community Projects
- Local events and engagement activities
- Social and wellbeing programs
- Volunteer-led initiatives
Infrastructure and Facilities
- Refurbishment of community buildings
- Purchase of equipment
- Maintenance of shared facilities
Operational Support
- Staff or sessional worker costs
- Running costs for community services
- Administrative and delivery expenses
Consultations and Planning
- Community consultations
- Feasibility studies
- Project development work
Strategic Priorities
Community Strengthening
- Encouraging active participation
- Building inclusive local networks
- Supporting grassroots initiatives
Sustainability and Responsibility
- Encouraging environmental sustainability
- Supporting long-term financial planning
- Promoting responsible resource use
Local Economic Benefit
- Encouraging local procurement
- Supporting local suppliers and services
- Strengthening community economies
Funding Approach and Expectations
Applicants are encouraged to:
- Secure matched funding where possible
- Demonstrate long-term sustainability of projects
- Consider environmental impact in project design
- Use local suppliers and services
- Show how the project will continue beyond funding support
Why the Fund Matters
The Binn Wind Turbine Community Fund plays an important role in rural development by:
- Reinvesting renewable energy profits into local communities
- Supporting long-term social and economic resilience
- Improving access to community services and facilities
- Reducing inequalities in rural and semi-rural areas
- Encouraging sustainable community development
It ensures that renewable energy projects directly benefit surrounding communities.
How the Program Works (Step-by-Step)
Step 1 — Identify Community Need
Local groups identify a need or opportunity in eligible areas.
Step 2 — Develop Project Proposal
Applicants prepare a plan including:
- Project objectives
- Community benefit
- Budget and funding request
- Delivery plan
Step 3 — Submit Application
Applications are submitted for review under the fund guidelines.
Step 4 — Eligibility and Assessment Review
Applications are evaluated based on:
- Community benefit
- Alignment with priorities
- Feasibility and sustainability
- Local impact
Step 5 — Funding Decision
- Successful projects receive grant support
- Funding levels depend on available annual budget
Step 6 — Project Delivery
- Implementation of approved activities
- Engagement with local residents and stakeholders
Step 7 — Reporting and Accountability
- Submission of outcomes and financial reporting
- Evidence of community impact required
Common Mistakes Applicants Should Avoid
- Weak demonstration of local community benefit
- Projects not clearly linked to eligible areas
- Lack of sustainability planning
- Ignoring environmental or procurement considerations
- Over-reliance on funding without matched contributions
- Poorly defined project outcomes
Tips for a Strong Application
- Clearly demonstrate benefit to eligible communities
- Align project with fund priorities (wellbeing, resilience, facilities)
- Include realistic and sustainable budgeting
- Highlight environmental and local procurement practices
- Show long-term impact beyond funding period
- Strengthen community involvement in design and delivery
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Binn Wind Turbine Community Fund?
It is a community benefit fund supporting local projects in parts of Fife and Perth & Kinross funded by wind energy revenues.
Who can apply?
Community groups, local organisations, and charities benefiting eligible communities.
Which areas are eligible?
Glenfarg, Abernethy & District, Auchtermuchty, and Strathmiglo.
What can the funding be used for?
Equipment, staffing, facility upgrades, running costs, and community activities.
Is the fund long-term?
Yes, it operates for approximately 25 years based on wind farm performance.
Do applicants need to be charities?
No, but they must meet eligibility criteria and demonstrate community benefit.
What is the main goal of the fund?
To improve wellbeing, resilience, and facilities in local communities.
Conclusion
The Binn Wind Turbine Community Fund is a long-term renewable energy community benefit initiative that reinvests wind farm revenues into local development. By funding projects that improve wellbeing, strengthen facilities, and reduce inequality, it supports sustainable, resilient, and connected communities across Fife and Perth & Kinross.
For more information, visit Foundation Scotland.