An ambitious start

Brae Rural Energy Hub began as part of the UK-wide Net Zero Living Programme, an Innovate UK initiative designed to accelerate sustainable, community-led change.

The project was led by partners Aquatera, Shetland Islands Council, Orkney Islands Council, Community Energy Scotland and EMEC, bringing together a diverse team with extensive experience in low-carbon initatives. Follow the timeline below to see how the project was developed by the team before tranisitioning to a fully community-led initiative.

Timeline of our journey

Spring 2023

Phase 1 feasibility study and community consultation undertaken by the project team identify Brae as the pilot location.

September 2023

Funding bid submitted for demonstration project.

February 2024

Phase 2 begins - project team, designers and Brae Youth & Community Centre develop the vision and plans together.

October 2024

Community drop-in session held in Brae to share project details and gather feedback.

December 2024

Official incorporation of the Brae Rural Energy Hub Community Interest Company (CIC)

February 2025

Contractors appointed for building retrofit.

March 2025 - February 2026

Major retrofit, making the centre warmer and more efficient. Service and operational planning from the project team and Brae Rural Energy Hub CIC.

April 2025

Brae Rural Energy Hub CIC awarded a grant of £114,349 from Viking Community Fund to support staffing costs for up to 4 years.

May 2025

First board meeting of the Brae Rural Energy Hub CIC with 8 local Directors in place following a recruitment drive in March.

September 2025

Brae Rural Energy Hub CIC awarded £97,287 from the Shetland Islands Council Coastal Communities Fund towards staffing and operational costs over three years.

February 2026

Handover of BYCC building and end of the project, with the Hub now fully managed by local CIC.