Achany
Through our Achany wind farm, we make around £100,000 per year available for community and charitable projects. Between 2010 and 2034, we expect to invest around £2.9 million in local projects. An additional £21,000 per year is also made available to support the Kyle of Sutherland Apprenticeship Scheme.
Additional funding is committed to the regional Sustainable Development Fund through the Achany wind farm. This fund opens every two years and supports transformational projects across the Highland local authority area.
The SSE Achany Community Fund will reopen on 1st March 2026, with approximately £90,000 available for allocation during 2026. The fund is managed in partnership with the RWE Rosehall Community Fund, and applicants are welcome to apply to both funds for the same project.
If funding is not available from the SSE Achany Community Fund at the time of application, groups are encouraged to contact the RWE Rosehall Community Fund to check whether funding is available – the Rosehall Community Fund is currently closed and will reopen at the end of May 2026.
Project eligibility
The Achany community fund can support projects which:
- enhance the quality of life for local residents;
- contribute to vibrant, healthy, successful and sustainable communities;
- promote community spirit and encourage community activity.
The Fund’s priorities also include a particular emphasis towards projects that are identified in the Ardgay, Creich & Lairg Community Action Plan
Projects in the following community council areas can apply:
- Ardgay and District
- Creich
- Lairg
You don’t need to be a registered charity to apply, but your organisation must have a constitution (governing document or set of rules) and not be set up for individual profit. If you are unsure if your group is eligible, please contact us for advice.
Since 2012, SSE Renewables’ Achany Community Fund has been delivered alongside RWE’s Rosehall Community Fund through a collaborative approach that involves local people in deciding how the two funds are spent - this video highlights the impact that this has brought about for the three communities in east Sutherland.
Fund timetable
The Achany Community Fund will reopen for applications in March 2026.
| Deadline | Panel date |
| 3 April | 25 May |
| 9 October | 3 December |
How to apply
First, please read the guidance for the relevant fund, then click the application link to be taken to our online application portal.
Achany Community Fund Guidance
Read the guidanceBegin a new Achany Fund application
Click here to apply for fundingContinue an existing Achany Fund application or grant
Click here to log on to the Community Investment PortalKyle of Sutherland apprenticeship scheme
The Achany Community Fund also supports an apprenticeship scheme to help local people develop their skills and secure employment in the area. An apprenticeship grant can help with the costs incurred by a business in supporting an apprentice and the related travel, accommodation, and training costs for the apprentice. The scheme is managed by Lairg & District Learning Centre. Further information on the apprenticeship scheme can be found here.
Funding case studies
The Fund has supported staffing and core costs at Kyle of Sutherland Hub (featured) and other local organisations.
Read more about these awards by clicking below.
Contact Details
For more information on this fund please contact:
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Kirsty PartridgeCommunity Investment ManagerTel: 07493 882554 Email: Kirsty.partridge2@sse.com
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