Manufacturers get 85% relief as new electricity support opens
British manufacturers can apply for substantial relief on electricity costs as the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme (BICS) opens. The scheme consolidates several reliefs into one framework to cut the indirect costs from green energy levies and help more than 10,000 energy-intensive businesses stay competitive.
What changed with the new scheme
The British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme (BICS) opened on 1 October 2026. It offers up to 85% relief on electricity levies for eligible energy-intensive manufacturers. The government says this joins several previous reliefs into a single program, aiming to lower indirect costs from green energy charges that usually raise industrial bills.
Key facts you should know
Who: more than 10,000 energy-intensive manufacturers in Great Britain. What: relief on electricity levies through BICS. How much: up to 85% relief on these levies. Where: administered by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ). When: scheme opened 1 October 2026. Why: to help ensure UK manufacturing remains competitive internationally by reducing operating costs linked to energy costs.
Who is affected and how
Companies that use a lot of electricity in heavy industry (for example, large-scale manufacturing) are the primary beneficiaries. The relief targets indirect charges tied to green energy policies that are common in industrial electricity bills. The agreement consolidates prior schemes, potentially simplifying eligibility and claiming processes for eligible firms.
Practical steps for businesses
1) Check eligibility: determine if your operations fall under the type of energy-intensive manufacturing covered by BICS. 2) Gather documentation: you’ll likely need evidence of electricity usage and historical charges. 3) Apply through the DESNZ portal when open for applications. 4) Monitor communications from your electricity supplier and DESNZ for confirmation and timetable. 5) If you’re unsure, contact your energy advisor or industry body for guidance on proving eligibility and required paperwork.
Limits and questions
The article notes a limit of up to 85% relief on electricity levies, but does not specify minimums, application windows beyond opening date, or whether subsidies stack with other reliefs. It also does not detail the exact eligible sectors or the type of “indirect costs” included. Stakeholders should seek official DESNZ guidance for precise terms and any regional differences.
Which sources did Setup in Bahrain review?
Setup in Bahrain reviewed the following source material before preparing this explanatory article.
The links remain visible so readers can inspect the evidence, compare dates and context, and confirm current requirements with the relevant authority.
- chichester.news — evidence source reviewed for this article.
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