After careful consideration, and in line with the extensive and valuable feedback we received through our consultation, RWE has appointed Foundation Scotland to support the delivery of the fund during its initial phase.
Foundation Scotland is one of Scotland’s leading independent community grant makers and currently supports the delivery of more than £13 million of renewable energy community funding each year. They bring extensive experience of establishing impactful and locally focused community panels, and ensuring funding is delivered transparently and effectively.
A key priority highlighted during consultation was that those living closest to the development should benefit most in the early years. As a result, the fund will initially focus on the host community of New Cumnock during the first five years of operation.
Following this period, the structure and delivery of the fund will then be reviewed which could include considering if the next phase of funding should be delivered over a wider area.
Funding decisions will be made by a local community panel, made up of people who live, work or volunteer in New Cumnock and who bring a range of skills, experience and local knowledge. Foundation Scotland will provide independent professional support to ensure the process operates effectively and transparently.