Beechwood House provides a safe and supportive environment for adults recovering from substance use, combining residential rehabilitation with community outreach and social care. Set within its own grounds near Inverness, the site includes a private garden and car park, offering a setting that is both practical and welcoming for those using the service.
At Beechwood House, the objective was not only to introduce renewable energy generation, but to do so in a way that respected the needs of a live and active support service. As part of the wider CrossReach solar programme, the project reflects a focus on practical decarbonisation, dependable delivery, and long‑term value for the organisation operating the building.
Careful planning and coordination helped ensure the installation could be delivered safely and efficiently, without disruption to residents or staff. Completed in March 2026, the solar PV installation adds onsite renewable energy generation to a building that supports day‑to‑day care, recovery, and long‑term wellbeing.
By generating electricity onsite, the system helps reduce the environmental impact of the building while supporting the continued delivery of rehabilitation, outreach, and care services.
The solar PV system at Beechwood House was developed under a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) structure, with Eco‑Congregation Scotland owning the solar PV asset and selling clean, lower‑cost electricity directly to CrossReach.
This project was supported by CARES funding, allowing multiple CrossReach sites to be delivered under a shared community ownership framework. The model ensures:
This collaborative approach demonstrates how CARES funding can unlock scalable, practical solutions for charities operating energy‑intensive buildings.
The Beechwood House project demonstrates how solar PV can be integrated into specialist support settings in a practical, considered, and effective way. The installation contributes to long‑term carbon reduction and operational resilience, while aligning with the organisation’s wider commitment to sustainability and social value.
