Preparing for BICS: the evidence manufacturers should gather now

Preparation Is Key

For manufacturers considering the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme (BICS), preparation should begin well before an application window opens. 

The proposed scheme is designed to reduce electricity cost pressures for qualifying manufacturing businesses. However, eligibility is expected to rely on clear, verifiable evidence. Businesses that wait until the last minute may find themselves trying to piece together information from multiple teams, systems and suppliers. 

A practical first step is to create a BICS evidence file

This should include your company name and registration number, current SIC code or codes, and a structured list of the products you manufacture. Where relevant, identify the HS codes associated with those products. These classifications are expected to be central to the proposed method for identifying qualifying manufacturing activity. 

You should also start gathering energy information. The government’s consultation indicates that applicants could need to provide details of their energy supplier and relevant Meter Point Administration Numbers (MPANs). Businesses may also need to demonstrate the proportion of their activity or revenue linked to eligible products. 

That last point is particularly important for manufacturers with a mixed product portfolio. If only part of your output is eligible, support may be calculated on a proportionate basis. Finance, operations and commercial teams should therefore be able to identify the revenue, output or electricity use associated with each relevant product group. 

This is not simply an administrative exercise. It is an opportunity to develop a clearer picture of your manufacturing operation, energy use and product mix. 

Get Ahead

The BICS process is intended to be accessible, but it will still require businesses to evidence their position. By reviewing classifications, product data, meter information and financial records now, manufacturers can reduce pressure later and put themselves in a stronger position to respond once final scheme details are confirmed.