Ark Housing Association has been named winner of the Regional Small-Scale Project (under £250k) of the Year at the Scotland Energy Efficiency Awards 2026, in recognition of its Bracken Road retrofit project in Portlethen, Aberdeenshire.
The award was presented on the 12th June 2026 at the Crowne Plaza Glasgow and celebrates energy efficiency projects that deliver high-quality results while putting customers at the heart of the work. It also recognises the strong partnership between Ark Housing, Saltire Facilities Management, and Clyde Net Zero.
Putting people first
The Bracken Road project was recognised by judges for going beyond technical improvements to deliver real benefits for tenants.
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 At Bracken Road, outdated heating systems and poor energy performance meant tenants were facing high energy bills and living in uncomfortable conditions.
This project has transformed those homes into warm, energy-efficient spaces - with a strong focus on supporting tenants’ wellbeing, dignity, and independence.
Improving homes and reducing energy costs
Using a whole-house retrofit approach, the project introduced a range of energy-saving measures, including:
Solar panels (PV)
Battery storage
High heat retention heating
Smart energy management systems
These improvements mean that over 74% of energy used in the home can now be generated on site, helping to significantly reduce reliance on grid electricity and lower energy bills.
Homes have also improved from SAP Band E to Band B and A, making them more comfortable, affordable, and sustainable.
Working together to support tenants
A key part of the project’s success was how it was delivered.
Work was carefully planned to minimise disruption, and tenants were fully supported throughout. Clear communication, easy-read guides, and practical advice helped residents understand how to use the new systems and get the most benefit from them.
Victoria Hennessy, Senior Investment and Sustainability Manager at Ark, 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. Together, we have improved the comfort, affordability and sustainability of homes within the community, and we are proud to see the positive impact recognised at a national level.”
Looking ahead
The Bracken Road project shows how smaller-scale retrofit projects can have a big impact - helping to tackle fuel poverty, improve wellbeing, and support people to live more independently.
This award highlights Ark’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality, sustainable homes that meet the needs of the people we support - now and in the future.