If you’re running a fleet of commercial vehicles in the UK, you’ll know that the road to “net zero” can sometimes feel like a bit of an uphill climb. However, some fresh news from the Government has just made part of that journey a little smoother. From April 2026, a major update to the Depot Charging Scheme (DCS) is kicking off, designed to help businesses transition to zero-emission vans, trucks, and coaches.
At Fleet Service GB, we’re keeping a close eye on these changes to ensure our partners stay ahead of the curve. Here is everything you need to know about the new funding and how you can grab your share.
What is the New Depot Charging Scheme?
The Government is launching a £170 million multi-year funding programme running from April 2026 until 2030. The goal is simple: to help fleet operators install the charging infrastructure they need, right at their own depots.
Because installing high-powered chargers for HGVs and large van fleets can be expensive, this grant covers 70% of chargepoint and civil costs, up to a maximum of £1 million per organisation.
Key Dates for Your Diary
The Government is releasing the funding in specific ‘windows’ on a first-come, first-served basis.. If you want to be at the front of the queue, mark these dates:
- Window 1 Opens: 25 March 2026.
- Window 1 Closes: 30 June 2026 (or sooner if the cash runs out!).
- Completion Deadline: Projects in this first window must be finished by 31 March 2027.
- Window 2 Opens: 28 October 2026.
More Than Just Infrastructure: Vehicle Grants
The DCS works alongside the Plug-in Van and Truck Grant, running until at least the end of the 2026/27 financial year. This is a massive win for fleet managers looking to reduce upfront costs.
- Small Vans (<2.5t): Up to £2,500 discount.
- Large Vans (2.5t – 4.25t): Up to £5,000 discount.
- Heavy HGVs (26t+): Up to a whopping £81,000 off.
The best part? You don’t even have to apply for the vehicle grant yourself—the dealer or manufacturer handles the paperwork and applies the discount directly to your purchase price. For more technical details on vehicle standards, you can check the official government guidance on low-emission vehicles.
Is My Business Eligible?
The 2026 update is quite broad, but there are some specific “dos and don’ts” regarding who can apply:
- Location: Sites in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland are all eligible.
- Depot Definition: A commercial site where vehicles are housed, maintained, and dispatched.
- Public Sector: NHS Trusts and Central Government Departments are welcome to apply.
- Excluded Vehicles: Hybrid vehicles and hydrogen-powered vehicles are not covered by this specific charging grant.
- Solar & Storage: You can include solar panels and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in your bid, provided they are integrated with the EV chargers.
FAQs About the Depot Charging Scheme
Can I apply for more than one site?
Yes! Whilst you are limited to one application per organisation, that single application can include as many depot sites as you like, as long as the total grant doesn’t exceed £1 million.
What costs are NOT covered?
The grant does not cover grid capacity or connection costs. You’ll need to provide evidence from your Distribution Network Operator (DNO) that your site has enough power before you apply.
Can staff use the chargers for their cars?
The primary use must be for your commercial HGVs, vans, or coaches. However, “occasional” charging of staff vehicles is allowed as a secondary use.
Who owns the equipment?
Legal ownership must stay with the applicant (the fleet operator) for at least three years. You cannot use the grant to enter into a long-term managed service agreement with a third-party operator.
Ready to future-proof your fleet? Explore our Fleet Management services to see how we can help you navigate the new Depot Charging Scheme and beyond.