Fleet operators can soon apply for a share of 36 million pounds to install dedicated commercial vehicle charging equipment at their depots. The latest application window for the government Depot Charging Scheme opens on Wednesday 28 October and runs until 29 January 2027. The programme aims to speed up the rollout of electric vans, trucks, and coaches by helping businesses cover the upfront capital costs of depot power upgrades.
Successful projects will start from April 2027 and must be completed by the end of March 2028. The scheme is part of a larger 170 million pound multiyear programme designed to run until 2030, with funding awards distributed on a first come first served basis. Industry experts note that while securing grant support for hardware is vital, fleet managers must also build sound commercial operating models around energy management, depot power capacity, and ongoing operational costs.
The EV Café Panel Take:
John Curtis: Pointed out that depot infrastructure funding is heavily oversubscribed, urging fleet managers to treat the application process with urgency. John noted that even if businesses miss this specific funding window, they must begin site feasibility and electrical audits immediately to prepare for subsequent tranches.
Sam Clarke: Praised the phased, stepped release of capital, noting it prevents funding from being hoarded in a single rush and links directly with wider commercial vehicle trials like the Zero Emission HGV Infrastructure Delivery programme. Sam highlighted that the real value lies in the operational lessons shared by early applicants, which demystify depot power connections for the wider market.
Paul Kirby: Urged fleets to lean heavily into community collaboration rather than navigating bureaucratic grant paperwork alone. Paul reminded operators that peer networks and industry specialists can accelerate project submissions and prevent expensive infrastructure design errors.