Big Energy Savings Network (BESN) funding applications now open

The application window for the 2024/24 Big Energy Savings Network (BESN) project is now open. BESN is made up of local community groups and charities across the United Kingdom that can advise on energy saving in the home, different energy tariffs and payment methods, and support available to help vulnerable households stay warm and lower energy bills.

With demand for energy advice rising, the project brings together third sector and community bodies to provide targeted, personalised advice to support some of Scotland’s most vulnerable people.

Through the BESN, funding is expected to be made available for the delivery of one-to-one support to a total of 2,000 clients and group sessions to a total of 792 individuals – either clients or frontline workers. For each person given advice, organisations will receive a sum of £100, and for each person trained, organisations will receive a sum of £30. 

Each organisation will be required to deliver proactive advice to vulnerable clients on energy issues and training to clients or frontline workers to enable them to provide advice on energy issues to clients they assist through their day-to-day. Resources will be provided by Citizens Advice Scotland to support the delivery of training.

The application deadline is Monday 5 August 2024 and further information - including an application form - is available to download. Please contact CASenergyprojects@cas.org.uk with any questions.