The Complete Guide to R&D Tax Credits 2026 | Download now.

Preparing your business for
the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme (BICS)

Prepare for the launch of BICS with support on eligibility, energy data, and application planning.

Find out if you’re eligible
Discover how our experts can support your exemption claim!

    Talk to our specialists



    What is the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme (BICS)?



    The British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme (BICS) is a new government‑led energy support scheme launching in April 2027. It offers eligible businesses an exemption from three taxes imposed on their electricity supply: the Renewables Obligation, Feed‑in Tariffs and the Capacity Market.

    While the scheme is not expected to launch until April 2027, applications are likely to open as early as October 2026. With around 10,000 claimants expected and a possible backdate to your claim from April 2026, early engagement is key.  

    Which businesses can apply for BICS?

    1- Sectors such as advanced manufacturing, clean energy, defence, life sciences, technology, chemicals, metals and minerals 

    2- Electricity-intensive manufacturing sites 

    3- Multi-site or complex meter portfolios 

    Eligibility is also assessed at individual site level, based on the proportion of electricity used in eligible manufacturing as confirmed in the government’s consultation response: 

    ◉ Less than 25% eligible use (no relief) 
    ◉ 25% to under 50% eligible use (50% exemption) 
    ◉ 50% or more eligible use (full 100% exemption)

    What our BICS support service offers

    Our dedicated support service is designed to help businesses assess eligibility, build readiness and position themselves for maximum advantage from day one.

    • assessment
      Eligibility assessment

      Evaluate eligibility and classification under the Government’s proposed criteria

    • bolt
      Energy benchmarking

      Benchmark your energy data to strengthen future applications

    • swap_horiz
      Scheme comparison

      Identify strategic advantages between BICS and existing exemption support schemes

    • calendar_month
      Launch preparation

      Develop a tailored approach ahead of the scheme’s official launch

    • checklist
      Application management

      Prepare and deliver a full application working with the department for business & trade to ensure a successful application

    • account_balance_wallet
      Supplier coordination

      Liaise with your energy supplier to ensure the exemptions are added to your bill and you receive the savings due to you

    Hear from our expert on the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme (BICS)

    With energy prices continuing to cause businesses significant stress, BICS gives a real opportunity to make a material difference. Opportunities like this don’t come around often. When they do, the businesses that step forward early are the ones that benefit most. This is a real opening to act whilst others are still thinking.

    Zach Crossland Director

    Zachary_Crossland

    Schedule an initial consultation

    Our team of experienced specialists are on hand to support with any questions and help you navigate your requirements.

    Schedule a call arrow_outward arrow_outward