The UK Government’s new Depot Charging Scheme is a huge win for fleet operators—but the clock is ticking.
With up to 75% of your EV chargepoint installation costs covered (capped at £1 million per organisation), this grant makes switching to electric vehicles far more affordable.
But with the scheme closing on 28 November 2025—or sooner if the £30 million budget runs out—acting fast is essential.
In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to prepare your application, avoid common mistakes, and secure funding before it’s too late.
What Is the Depot Charging Scheme?
The Depot Charging Scheme is part of a £63 million government initiative to expand EV infrastructure across the UK.
It supports organisations installing electric vehicle charging points at their depots—helping reduce the upfront cost of fleet electrification.
The scheme:
- Covers up to 75% of infrastructure costs
- Offers up to £1 million per organisation
- Applies to fleet depots for vans, HGVs, and coaches
- Requires all works to be completed by 31 March 2026
This is a one-time opportunity that complements the existing Plug-in Van and Plug-in Truck grants.
Step-by-Step: How to Secure Your Depot Charging Grant
1. Check If You’re Eligible
You must be:
- A UK-registered fleet operator with at least 12 months’ operating history
- The owner of your depot, or have landlord consent to install chargepoints
- The owner, leaseholder, or purchaser of at least one battery-electric vehicle
- Able to show evidence of funding the remaining 25% of project costs
You must also agree that the charging points will be primarily used by commercial vehicles.
2. Book a Professional Site Survey Early
To apply, you need to submit:
- A supportive quote from a certified installer
- A detailed infrastructure proposal with cost breakdowns
- Proof of grid capacity and/or applications to the DNO
Fit Solar provides site surveys and DNO coordination as part of our EV charger installation service. We handle:
- Electrical assessments
- Smart power management planning
- Compliant infrastructure designs
- Custom quotes that meet grant application requirements
3. Get Landlord Consent (If Applicable)
If you lease your depot space, get written approval from your landlord confirming they support the proposed infrastructure.
This is often a sticking point—sort it early to avoid delays.
4. Order Your Vehicle(s)
You must have at least one electric vehicle ordered, leased, or owned to qualify.
If you’re using the Plug-in Van or Truck Grant, be sure to provide evidence in your application.
5. Ensure Grid Capacity
You’ll need to confirm with your DNO that your site has—or can support—the necessary electricity supply.
Without this confirmation, your application can’t be approved. Fit Solar can help coordinate this as part of our install planning. Don’t hesitate to contact one of our technicians.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting too long to engage with installers
- Failing to confirm grid capacity in time
- Missing landlord approval
- Submitting vague or incomplete quotes
- Overlooking the 31 March 2026 completion deadline
Don’t leave it too late. Suppliers will be in high demand as the deadline nears, and grid upgrades can take months.
How Fit Solar Helps You Maximise the Grant
As experienced EV charger installers, Fit Solar can:
- Carry out your site survey and electrical assessment
- Provide grant-ready quotes and designs
- Coordinate with your landlord and grid operator
- Handle the entire installation process, ensuring full compliance
- Offer long-term maintenance to keep your system running reliably
We work with private companies, charities, councils, and NHS departments across the region—and we’re ready to support your application.
Final Reminder: Act Now
The Depot Charging Scheme closes on 28 November 2025, or earlier if the budget runs out.
Installation must be complete by 31 March 2026. With grid and paperwork delays common, the best time to act is right now.
