B:CAN Energy Redress Project: Launching a Brighter, Warmer Future for Birmingham

Birmingham Community Action Network (B:CAN) celebrated a major milestone with the special launch event of its Energy Redress Project, marking a new era of energy support for Birmingham residents. Thanks to a significant award of over £1.5M from the tenth round of the Ofgem Energy Redress Scheme, B:CAN stands poised to make a tangible difference in the lives of thousands dealing with the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

Who We Are

B:CAN Energy is a city-wide partnership of ten trusted local anchor organisations:

Together, these partners provide accessible, face-to-face community energy advice and advocacy through drop-in sessions, telephone appointments, home assessments, and lively energy cafes. The project ensures impartial, neighbourhood-based support that meets people where they are – in their homes and communities.

The event, held at Midlands Arts Centre provided a valuable space for partners to network and exchange knowledge, strengthening collaboration across the project. We were also delighted to welcome Manisha, a client of New Hope Global, who bravely shared her powerful story of how the support she received transformed her life. This moment was a true highlight of the day, demonstrating the profound impact of the work we do together.

**Manisha shares her experience of gaininng support through the B:CAN Energy Project.**

The event also gave attendees the chance to hear directly from Jason, ecobirmingham’s Energy Project Coordinator, who shared insights about his work supporting residents with practical energy advice to save money. Guests also visited MECC Trust’s Energy Advice van, an innovative and accessible way to deliver energy advice across Birmingham, ensuring support reaches those who need it most.

**Mazar Dad introduces guests to the MECC Energy Advice Van**

**Jason Horner, Energy Project Coordinator at ecobirmingham speaks at the event.**

Celebrating Success and Impact

The launch event highlighted not only the impact of the second round of funding, which enabled B:CAN to grow from five partners in North Birmingham to a citywide network of ten delivery partners, but also B:CAN’s proven track record supporting households through tough times.

Over 1,000 face-to-face appointments delivered since April 2025
2,140 clients supported with light-touch energy advice and signposting
200 home assessment visits completed, directly helping to assess and address fuel poverty at home

B:CAN now aims to support more than 9,000 unique households across Birmingham within the coming year. The expected impacts include:

Saving 12,000,000 kWh of energy annually
Generating £4,000,000 in client savings
Preventing 2,320 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions each year

Waheed Saleem, Head of Programmes and Partnership at Witton Lodge Community Association said “B:CAN Energy launch event provided a great platform for the 10 delivery partners to highlight the collective impact we are making supporting vulnerable people in our communities. The advice our staff provide can make a real difference to people especially as we approach the winter months to save energy, reduce their bills and tackle the cost of living.”

Community-Led Solutions in Challenging Times

At a time when public finances are stretched, B:CAN continues to show the power of community action. By uniting local organisations and sharing best practice, the Energy Redress Project is helping to design and deliver cost-effective solutions that empower residents to save energy, reduce bills, and improve home comfort.

B:CAN’s ethos is simple: to make life better for everyone in Birmingham – one warmer, greener, and more resilient household at a time. With strong partnerships, proven impact, and innovative approaches, the Energy Redress Project stands ready to light the way for Birmingham’s communities – all powered by the people, for the people.