Driving change, energising our community.
The Brae Rural Energy Hub will open in 2025, supporting Shetlanders to transition to net zero. The hub will operate within the Brae Youth and Community Centre (BYCC) alongside community groups and activities.
Join us in creating a greener future for Shetland.
- Access energy-efficiency tools
- Get energy-saving, cost-cutting advice
- Discover services to reduce your carbon footprint and cut energy costs
- Enjoy spending time in a welcoming social hub
- Focus on work or study in our dedicated co-working space
- Support decarbonised transport systems
Powering our community’s future, together
The pioneering Brae Rural Energy Hub is a vibrant community space in the heart of the North Mainland – reflecting Shetland’s values and aspirations for a sustainable future.
Community involvement is essential to our mission. That’s why you will find social events, flexible workspaces and a café alongside reliable information, practical solutions, and services to help reduce energy costs and carbon emissions.
Residents, businesses, public organisations and community groups – we want to hear your ideas and make the Hub a community led initiative.
Help shape the hub’s future - contact us today
Explore the Hub’s resources
You’ll be able to access education and training about low carbon technologies, funding to support adopting them at home, and find a wealth of resources, giving easy access to information. Visit us to try greener technologies and learn about more environmentally friendly habits.
Coming soon: E-bike hire, Car Club vehicles, electric vehicle charging, co-working spaces and a welcoming café.
About the Project
The Brae Rural Energy Hub is one of seven pilot projects backed by Innovate UK’s £25 million Net Zero Living Programme, which aims to develop a place-based model for overcoming non-technical barriers to decarbonisation like behavioural change and finance, that is replicable in rural and remote communities.
The funded Innovate UK project will run from Spring 2023 to October 2025, combining expertise from partners Shetland Islands Council, Orkney Islands Council, Aquatera Ltd, the European Marine Energy Centre, and Community Energy Scotland, who have collaborated with the Brae Youth and Community Centre committee during the development phase of the Hub. The Brae Rural Energy Hub Community Interest Company was incorporated in December 2024, a community-based board who will lead the future strategic direction of the Hub and its operations.
Services and Facilities
The Hub brings together varied services to support a greener lifestyle, benefit the community and contribute to Shetland’s sustainable future.
Within the building
Co-working space
Modern, flexible workspaces – perfect for remote workers, meeting colleagues, or to reduce home energy costs. Connect with others and work in a supportive environment.
Community café
Connect with others in a warm, inviting space over delicious refreshments. It’s the perfect spot to relax after using the co-working space or while waiting for your electric vehicle to charge.
Information and advice
Certified staff can provide information, energy advice, funding, and referrals to local firms specialising in low-carbon heating, insulation, and leasing or buying electric vehicles.
Community events
The hub will host environmentally themed events throughout the year, which may look like clothes swaps, a toy library, and information events.
Outside the building
Electric Vehicle (EV) rapid charging
Charge your electric vehicle quickly and conveniently with our rapid charging points, particularly helpful for drivers making long journeys.
E-bike hire, storage and charging points
Rent one of our five e-bikes on an hourly or monthly basis, making it easier for you to choose active and sustainable local transportation options. You’ll also be able to securely store and charge them at the Hub.
Shetland Car Club Service
Gain convenient access to a car and a minivan for personal or business use, reducing your need for private car ownership.
Transport connectivity
We look forward to seeing how the Hub can support our bus network, acting as a waiting room and offering opportunities to get involved in elements of community transport.
Try out our new electric bike hire!
We have five electric bikes ready for hire, perfect for exploring Brae and the surrounding area in a sustainable and enjoyable way:
- £15 per day
- £75 for a week
- Available to anyone aged 16 and over
- Full induction provided by staff
Our temporary collection and drop off point is located at: Delting Galley Shed, Brae, ZE2 9QJ. Hire and collection must be pre-arranged.
Contact us to book your e-bike hire
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Latest News
Read the latest updates on our progress, upcoming events, and stories about how the Hub is making a difference in our community.
Contact us
Have a question or want to learn more about how the Brae Rural Energy Hub can support you? Contact our team today.