SSE has completed the second phase of its Hydro Community Fund, further strengthening the positive impact already created through the initiative.
The £10 million fund was established to support projects in community council areas located near SSE’s hydro assets across the north of Scotland. Its aim is to share the benefits of renewable energy and help maintain the region’s long-standing hydro legacy.
The first funding round distributed £1.2 million to a variety of local initiatives, and the newly completed second round has now allocated an additional £1.3 million. These contributions are already helping rural communities deliver projects that support social, economic and environmental priorities.
To ensure the fund is managed fairly and transparently, decisions are made by an independent panel of community representatives from eligible areas. Their local insight and experience have played a key role in guiding the fund’s success.
One recently completed project involved the Blair Atholl and Struan Community Council, which used support from the Hydro Community Fund to convert a difficult village route into a fully accessible footpath. The improved path was officially opened by First Minister John Swinney during a launch event.
Before the upgrade, many residents found the route hazardous. One couple previously had to drive the half-mile journey to the nearest shop because the old pavement was unsafe for wheelchair use. The new path now provides a safe, independent travel route for them and many others.
Treasurer Giles Stevens said:
“The positive impact of this new footpath cannot be overstated. While carrying out maintenance, we’ve heard from countless residents about how much it has improved daily life. We are extremely grateful to SSE and the Hydro Community Fund for making such a difference to our small community.”
Since 2024, the fund has backed a wide range of projects, from major affordable housing initiatives in Rannoch and Arran to community hall improvements in Appin, Skipness, Dalwhinnie, Killin, and elsewhere. It has also supported recreational and outdoor projects in Strachur, Loch Tummel, Gairloch, Comrie, and many other locations.
Morven Smith, Head of Community Investment for SSE, said:
“Since the Hydro Community Fund first opened, 50 projects have now received support, each delivering valuable benefits for their local communities. Fairness is central to how we award funding, which is why our decision-making panel is made up of representatives from the communities themselves. We’d encourage local groups to explore future funding rounds and bring forward ideas that can make a real difference in their area. We’re excited to see how the fund continues to create positive impact in the years ahead.”
For more details on the Hydro Community Fund and how to apply, please visit Hydro Community Fund | SSE Renewables