In 1998, the idea behind Here We Are was ambitious and untested, but 24 years later, the Cairndow-based community initiative stands as a model of what renewable energy – and community spirit – can do for local development.
When the Here We Are centre opened in 2004, its founders faced a familiar challenge: ensuring long-term financial sustainability without relying on diminishing grant funding. Renewable energy presented a promising solution, leveraging Argyll’s natural resources—abundant rainfall and forests. However, making this vision a reality required significant capital and the support of organisations willing to take a risk.
The first major step was biomass energy. Here We Are launched Our Power CIC, a community interest company, with early support from groups such as Airtricity, Community Energy Scotland, and loans from the Scottish Biomass Support Scheme. Today, the company supplies heat to local businesses, including Cooke Aquaculture, Kilmory Castle, and the Inveraray Inn.
The second project, the Merk Hydro, faced daunting obstacles, from planning challenges and financing to eagle conservation issues. But with the expertise of hydro specialist Roy Foster and backing from investors and the Scottish government, the Merk began generating electricity in 2015.
These renewable energy ventures have brought lasting benefits to the community, namely:
* A social history archive preserving oral recordings, photographs, and stories of Cairndow’s vanishing way of life.
* Infrastructure improvements, such as a lochside path linking Cairndow to Clachan.
* Community events, including Hogmanay ceilidhs.
* Ownership of 37 hectares of woodland.
* Local exhibitions and a community fund.
* Eight jobs at Here We Are
More recently, Here We Are has turned its focus to social care.
With funding from NatWest Social and Community Capital, the group purchased a house in Cairndow to enable a carer to live and work within the community. Initiatives like the Come On In volunteer programme, home help services, and monthly tea parties continue to support the elderly.
Now, Here We Are is seeking a self-employed carer or personal assistant to fill this vital role. Accommodation at No. 1 Kilmorich, Cairndow, could be part of the package, continuing the centre’s mission to care for the community it serves.
