Josh Doble from Community Land Scotland says the government’s current proposals on community ownership will not mean a free-for-all.
It is initially aimed at Forestry and Land Scotland sites, applies only to developments under 50 megawatts, and is not expected to begin until after 2030.
But those working in the sector want it sooner and want the principle extended.
“We want it to happen before 2030,” says Josh. “We want communities to be able to bid on repowering leases over 50 megawatts, and we want to see it on all publicly owned land.”
The Scottish government said the new approach would keep fairness at the heart of their net-zero ambitions.
It said the pilot would be kept under review and further opportunities to make better use of public land for community energy may be explored.
For communities like Fintry, the promise is clear.
For others, the question is whether they can build the capacity to take on projects closer in scale to running a company than a local charity.
Alan Stewart says it’s a “partial victory”.
His advice to other communities is straightforward.
“Keep going. Talk to the right people. Get the right advice. But don’t give up.”