Welcome to Connectus Utilities
Welcome to Connectus Utilities
Electric fleet adoption is accelerating across the UK, but one of the biggest barriers remains the cost and complexity of charging infrastructure.
The UK Government’s Depot Charging Scheme (DCS), introduced by the Department for Transport and the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles, is designed to support the rollout of depot-based EV charging.
For organisations operating from a central base, the scheme presents an opportunity to accelerate electrification while reducing upfront investment. However, funding alone won’t remove the practical challenges. Grid capacity and connection timelines will still need to be considered early.
The DCS is a grant programme focused on supporting depot-based charging infrastructure for vans, HGVs and coaches. It is designed for fleets where vehicles return to a central location, making charging more predictable and operationally efficient.
It sits alongside existing vehicle incentives and forms part of the UK’s wider transport decarbonisation strategy.
The scheme’s first application window is open until 31st June 2026, with award decisions planned to conclude by 30th September 2026 and all project works due to conclude by 31st March 2027. Full information on the scheme including deadlines and key dates can be found on the project website.
In its initial phase, the scheme offers significant financial support. As outlined in the original legal summary, it “covers up to 70% of eligible costs… with a maximum grant cap of £1 million per organisation”.
Importantly, this extends beyond chargepoints themselves and includes the wider infrastructure required to make projects viable. Eligible costs include:
The scheme also forms part of a longer-term funding commitment, with “a £170 million multi-year programme (2026–2030)” supporting the rollout of infrastructure.
While the scheme presents a strong opportunity, it does not remove the underlying challenges associated with power and infrastructure.
Grid capacity remains a key constraint, and in some cases, connection timelines may extend well beyond project expectations. This reflects wider pressure on the electricity network as demand increases across transport, heating and industry, with the UK Government highlighting growing demand from technologies such as electric vehicles and heat pumps.
There are also practical considerations around funding and delivery. The scheme operates on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning early preparation is essential. Organisations must still commit upfront capital, and infrastructure must be carefully designed to align with both current and future fleet requirements.
As with wider utility infrastructure, early-stage planning is essential to maximise the value of the scheme.
Understanding energy requirements, assessing available network capacity and engaging with distribution network operators early can help to:
A coordinated approach that considers vehicles, infrastructure and energy supply together will be key to successful implementation.
The Depot Charging Scheme represents a meaningful step forward in supporting the UK’s transition to zero-emission transport. By addressing infrastructure costs, it removes a major barrier for many organisations and strengthens the case for fleet electrification.
However, access to power, realistic delivery timelines and effective planning will remain critical. Those with clear electrification strategies and the ability to move quickly will be best positioned to benefit, with faster delivery and improved ROI.
As the transition accelerates, charging infrastructure is no longer a secondary consideration. It is becoming a central part of operational and development strategy.
Here at Connectus, we’re experienced in helping organisations navigate the complexities of energy and grid connections. If you would like to learn more about how we can support your project or fleet transition, please contact us at https://connectus-utilities.co.uk/contact-us.
