Introduction
Big changes are coming for transport fleet depots. If you're managing a commercial fleet, the latest round of government support could lower your costs and speed up your switch to electric vehicles (EVs). Here’s what you need to know.
Big changes are coming for transport fleet depots.
If you’re managing a commercial fleet, the latest round of government support could lower your costs and speed up your switch to electric vehicles (EVs).
Here’s what you need to know.
New UK Government Support for Fleet Depots
The Department for Transport has launched a new Depot Charging Scheme through the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV).
This scheme supports the rollout of EV charge points at commercial and public depots.
Key facts:
- Funding covers up to 75% of EV charger and infrastructure costs.
- The scheme is open now and runs until 28 November 2025, or until all funds are allocated.
- All funded installations must be completed by 31 March 2026.
- Up to £1 million is available per applicant.
This scheme is part of a larger push to electrify fleets and cut emissions across the UK.
How This Affects Fleet Depot Managers
If you’re running a depot with petrol or diesel vehicles, you’re under pressure to go electric.
The main barriers:
- High upfront charger installation costs
- Grid connection delays
- Limited technical support
This funding helps address each of these.
You can now work directly with your local council or apply independently to:
- Access public money for depot-based charging
- Secure help with grid upgrades
- Get technical guidance from OZEV partners
Who Can Apply?
You’re eligible if:
- You operate a fleet with vans, HGVs, or buses
- Your depot is located in England, Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland
- You plan to install permanent chargepoints (7kW to 150kW or more)
The grant is open to:
- Private fleet operators
- Public sector fleet managers (NHS, councils, etc.)
- Shared depot operators
What Kind of Funding Is It?
This is co-funding:
- You contribute 25% of the project cost
- OZEV covers the rest, up to £1 million
- Some applicants may qualify for higher funding if they show greater need
The funding also includes support for:
- Site surveys
- Grid connection design
- Load management strategies
Real-World Example: NHS and Logistics Fleets
The scheme is already making an impact.
NHS Trusts across England are using the grant to install charging at over 200 medical sites. One site in Manchester installed:
- 8 fast chargers (22kW)
- 3 rapid chargers (100kW)
- A new grid supply, with 70% of the cost covered by the grant
A logistics depot in Birmingham worked with their council to install:
- 10 x 22kW chargers
- 2 x 100kW chargers
- A new substation connection
The site now supports 40 electric vans and plans to go fully electric by 2027.
OZEV’s Message
The Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) says the goal is to remove barriers that stop fleet managers from switching to EVs.
“We recognise the challenges fleets face with site upgrades, cost, and planning. This scheme helps overcome those by offering both financial and technical support.”
That support includes help from Cenex and the Energy Saving Trust—two trusted partners in EV infrastructure planning.
Why This Matters Now
Fleet electrification is not optional. Regulations are tightening and fuel costs are rising.
You now have a short window to:
- Get funded
- Upgrade your depot
- Avoid grid bottlenecks
Questions to ask:
- How many vehicles will need charging next year?
- Do you know your depot’s current grid limits?
- Have you spoken to your council or OZEV advisors?
How to Start
- Check your depot’s future EV charging needs
- Book a site survey with an EV charge point installation expert
- Contact your council or OZEV for application guidance
- Plan your grid upgrades early
- Apply before 28 November 2025
We support fleets like yours every day. If you’re unsure where to begin, we can help guide you through the process.
