SSE Renewables has announced £2.1 million in funding for 17 community projects across the Scottish Highlands through its Highland Sustainable Development Fund, supporting initiatives aimed at strengthening rural resilience, infrastructure, and housing.
The funding, backed by SSE’s onshore wind farms, is distributed through an independent panel and focuses on addressing key challenges faced by remote Highland communities, including depopulation and a shortage of affordable housing.
A significant portion of the funding has been allocated to housing initiatives, with £656,000 supporting the delivery of 39 affordable, community-owned homes across locations such as Canna, Eigg, Muck, Raasay, and Rum. These projects aim to increase long-term housing availability for families and new residents in rural areas.
Among the recipients, the Isle of Canna Community Development Trust received £120,000 to build three new homes on community-owned land. The Coigach Community Development Company was awarded £95,000 to support the construction of 10 energy-efficient affordable homes at Achagarry on the Coigach peninsula. These developments are designed to strengthen local populations and support sustainable community growth.
Additional funding includes £200,000 for a new community shop, fuel station, and EV charging hub in West Ardnamurchan, a project intended to restore essential services in a remote area. Further support has also been allocated to community woodland and growing space initiatives across the region.
Community leaders and SSE representatives emphasized that affordable housing and essential infrastructure are critical to addressing long-term demographic challenges in the Highlands. They highlighted that investment in community-led development helps retain residents, attract new families, and improve economic and social sustainability.
The latest funding round reflects ongoing efforts to ensure Highland communities remain viable, resilient, and connected through targeted investment in housing, services, and local development projects.
