The award, presented on 12 June 2026 at the Crowne Plaza Glasgow, celebrates outstanding energy efficiency projects that combine high-quality delivery with strong customer focus - and recognises the collaborative efforts of Ark Housing, Saltire Facilities Management, and Clyde Net Zero.

The judges recognised Bracken Road as an example of how energy efficiency projects can go beyond technical upgrades to deliver genuine social impact.

Ark provides over 500 homes across Scotland for people with specialist support needs, including those living with learning disabilities, autism, and mental health conditions. At Bracken Road, outdated heating systems and poor energy performance had left residents facing high costs and uncomfortable living conditions.

The award-winning project successfully transformed these homes into warm, energy-efficient spaces - while prioritising tenant wellbeing, dignity, and independence throughout.

Through a whole-house retrofit approach, the project introduced a fully integrated energy solution, including solar PV, battery storage, high heat retention heating, and smart energy management systems.

This enabled more than 74% of household energy demand to be generated and used within the home, significantly reducing reliance on grid electricity and lowering energy costs for tenants. Homes have been upgraded from SAP Band E to Band B and A, delivering measurable improvements in comfort, affordability, and sustainability.

A key factor in securing the award was the strength of partnership working and the project’s focus on supporting tenants throughout the process.

Installations were carefully managed to minimise disruption, with tailored communication and ongoing support ensuring residents felt confident using the new systems. Easy-read guides and practical advice helped tenants make the most of renewable energy and reduce their energy bills.

Victoria Hennessy, senior investment and sustainability manager at Ark Housing Association, said: “We’re incredibly proud to see the Bracken Road project recognised with this award. It highlights what can be achieved when we combine innovation with a truly person-centred approach. This project has made a real difference to our customers, helping them feel warmer, more secure, and more confident in managing their energy use, while supporting their health and independence.”

Gary McIntosh, head of growth and development at Saltire Facilities Management Ltd, added: “We are absolutely delighted that the Bracken Road project in Portlethen has been recognised as the Overall Winner of the Scottish Energy Efficiency Awards Regional Small-Scale Project of the Year 2026.

“This achievement reflects the strength of partnership working between Saltire, Ark Housing Association and Clyde Net Zero, who collaborated to deliver meaningful energy efficiency improvements for residents. By working together, we have enhanced the comfort, affordability, and sustainability of homes within the community, and we are proud to see the positive impact of this project recognised at a national level.”

Scarf celebrates second consecutive win

Scarf has been named Regional Vulnerable Customer Support Organisation of the Year at the Energy Efficiency Awards for the second year running, recognising the charity’s continued commitment to supporting households experiencing fuel poverty through practical energy efficiency advice, guidance and support.

The Energy Efficiency Awards celebrate organisations making a meaningful difference through energy efficiency, innovation and customer support. Retaining the title for a second consecutive year highlights Scarf’s ongoing impact in communities across Scotland, helping households stay warm, reduce their energy bills and access the support available to them.

The awards also recognised the success of Scarf’s partnership work. Scarf, alongside Perth & Kinross Council and BRB Electrical Ltd, were Highly Commended in the Regional Large Scale Project (>£250k) of the Year category for the delivery of the Energy Efficient Scotland: Area Based Scheme in Perth and Kinross.

Over the past year, Scarf supported more than 8,000 households across Scotland through its energy advice services, helping people improve energy efficiency, maximise household income and access funding and support schemes. Through a combination of personalised advice, community engagement, home visits and partnership working, the organisation continues to play a vital role in tackling fuel poverty across Scotland.

James Buchan, project manager at Scarf, said: “Winning this award for a second consecutive year is a fantastic achievement and a reflection of the dedication of our team. Every day, we support people facing difficult circumstances, helping them reduce costs, improve the energy efficiency of their homes and access the support they need.

“We’re also delighted to see our partnership work recognised as Highly Commended. Delivering meaningful change requires strong collaboration, and we’re proud to work alongside Perth & Kinross Council and BRB Electrical Ltd to improve homes and outcomes for local residents.”

The awards were presented at the national Energy Efficiency Awards ceremony, bringing together organisations from across the sector to celebrate excellence in energy efficiency and customer support.

This latest recognition reinforces Scarf’s mission to create warmer homes, stronger communities and a fairer energy future for everyone.