Just like Scotland’s seasons, the energy landscape is constantly changing — and 2026 looks set to bring one of the most active years yet for clean energy and low-carbon investment.
From new funding rounds and public-sector frameworks to national policy shifts under Great British Energy, the pace of opportunity is accelerating.
Westhill-based ORKA Solutions has outlined five areas where Scottish organisations — from community groups to SMEs and councils — can make the most of what’s ahead.
1️⃣ CARES Community Buildings Fund – final call before the deadline
Administered by Local Energy Scotland, the CARES Community Buildings Fund offers grants covering up to 80% of project costs (capped at £80,000) for renewable upgrades.
Community halls, churches and other local hubs can apply for support to install solar PV, battery storage, heat pumps or insulation improvements, helping to lower running costs and reduce emissions.
Applications close 31 October 2025, with projects to be completed by February 2026 — making this the final window for groups to benefit before the fund resets.
“Community buildings often sit at the heart of local life but face some of the highest pressures from rising energy bills,” says Duncan Booth, Director at ORKA Solutions. “Funds like CARES offer a practical way to make those spaces sustainable for years to come.”
2️⃣ Workplace and SME EV Charging Grants – support extended to 2026
For Scottish businesses, two UK-wide grant schemes continue to make the transition to electric vehicles more affordable.
- Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) – up to £350 per socket (maximum 40)
- EV Infrastructure Grant for SMEs – up to £15,000 per site, plus £350 per socket and £500 for every space made EV-ready
Both are available until March 2026 and can cover up to 75% of installation costs, helping companies electrify staff parking or fleet depots.
These grants are administered by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) and managed through approved installers such as ORKA Solutions.
3️⃣ Rural & Island EV Infrastructure Fund – powering remote communities
The Scottish Government’s £4.5 million Rural & Island Infrastructure Fund, delivered by the Energy Saving Trust, aims to fill gaps in Scotland’s EV charging network — particularly in areas less likely to attract private investment.
Funding levels range from:
- £15,000 for smaller AC charge points
- £30,000–£60,000 for DC fast chargers
- Up to £300,000 for larger, innovative projects that combine solar generation and battery storage
It’s a clear opportunity for local businesses and landowners to lead charging accessibility — especially when paired with ORKA’s combined solar, battery and EV expertise.
4️⃣ Public-Sector Frameworks – building the next wave of renewables
Beyond standalone grants, Scotland is also refreshing how it procures renewable projects.
The Scottish Procurement Alliance’s £120 million N9 Retrofit & Decarbonisation Framework will open new supplier windows in 2026, covering energy-efficiency upgrades, solar PV, heating systems and controls across public buildings.
At a national level, Great British Energy — a new UK public-sector renewables company — will begin its first large-scale solar programmes for schools, NHS sites and public infrastructure.
These initiatives will rely on approved suppliers from frameworks like SPA, Crown Commercial Service, and Public Contracts Scotland — areas where ORKA is already positioning itself for future work.
“The next phase of Scotland’s clean energy journey isn’t just about single-site installations — it’s about connecting solar, storage and charging into smarter systems,” says Duncan Booth. “We’re preparing for that shift now so our customers are ready when new funding and framework opportunities open.”
5️⃣ Tax and ROI Incentives – the quieter wins
Even without direct grants, policy measures continue to strengthen the financial case for investment:
- Full Expensing – 100% first-year capital allowance on qualifying solar PV installations (until March 2026)
- Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) – tax relief on up to £1 million of capital expenditure
- Non-Domestic Rates Relief – exemption for new solar installations in Scotland until 2035 (mygov.scot)
- Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) – ongoing payments for surplus solar energy exported to the grid
Together, these measures can significantly improve project ROI and shorten payback periods for businesses considering solar PV or battery systems.
Looking ahead
As the next round of frameworks and funding windows emerge in 2026, ORKA Solutions continues to work closely with Scottish businesses, councils and community groups to simplify access to renewable technologies and long-term cost savings.
“We see 2026 as a year where policy and practical delivery really align,” adds Duncan. “Our focus is to help clients prepare now — whether that means assessing a building’s solar potential, scoping EV infrastructure, or making sure they’re ready when new opportunities open.”
Westhill-based ORKA Solutions delivers expert support and seamless solar, EV and battery solutions for businesses across Scotland.