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UK Zero Emission Truck Grant and Depot Charging Scheme
What Your Business Needs to Know for 2026
The Zero Emission Truck Grant is part of a major UK Government initiative to help businesses transition to cleaner transport. Combined with the new Depot Charging Scheme, these grants reduce the costs of adopting zero emission HGVs and installing depot charging infrastructure. Both schemes begin in 2026 and offer significant financial support for operators preparing for a zero‑emission fleet.
Below is a breakdown of the UK Zero Emission Truck Grant and the Depot Charging Scheme, including eligibility, key dates and links to official government resources.
Zero Emission Truck Grant (From 1st April 2026)
The UK Government has announced an updated Zero Emission Truck Grant, designed to help operators reduce emissions by supporting the cost of buying electric HGVs. This scheme provides significant financial assistance for businesses transitioning to cleaner transport.
Grant Rates by Gross Vehicle Mass
Eligible vehicles qualify for funding based on their weight category:
- 4,250kg < x ≤ 12,000kg – Up to £15,000
- 12,000kg < x ≤ 18,000kg – Up to £37,000
- 18,000kg < x ≤ 26,000kg – Up to £52,000
- Over 26,000kg – Up to £81,000
Funding Coverage
- Up to 40% of the capital cost covered in England, Wales and Scotland
- Up to 30% covered in Northern Ireland
- Maximum 100 truck grants available per customer during the 2026/2027 financial year
These grants help reduce the upfront costs of transitioning to zero‑emission HGVs, making adoption more achievable for operators of all sizes.
Official Government Resources
- OZEV Press Release (Government):
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/1-billion-to-cut-costs-for-businesses-drive-growth-and-clean-up-uk-roads - Apply for the Plug‑In Vehicle Grant:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-a-plug-in-vehicle-grant
Depot Charging Scheme (2026–2030)
Alongside vehicle support, the UK Government has launched a large‑scale funding initiative to accelerate the installation of depot charging infrastructure. This grant helps operators build the charging capability required to support electric HGVs, vans and coaches.
Funding Overview
- £170 million fund available between now and 2030
- £28 million allocated for 2026/27
- £38 million allocated for 2027/28
- Operators can claim 70% of charging hardware and installation costs, capped at £1 million per organisation
- Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) eligible when primarily supporting charging
- Solar PV eligible only when exclusively powering charging equipment
This scheme is open across multiple depot sites, though each organisation may submit only one application per funding window.
Key Dates for Applications
Application Window 1
- Opens: 25 March 2026
- Closes: 30 June 2026 (or earlier if funding is exhausted)
- Project completion deadline: 31 March 2027
Application Window 2
- Opens: 28 October 2026
- Closes: 29 January 2027
- Delivery period: April 2027 – 31 March 2028
Because funding may run out early, operators are encouraged to prepare applications well in advance.
Government Information
Full scheme details are available through the official UK Government “Find a Grant” service:
https://find-government-grants.service.gov.uk/grants/depot-charging-scheme-1
What This Means for Operators
These two funding schemes work together to support widespread adoption of zero emission HGVs across the UK.
Businesses may benefit from:
- Lower upfront vehicle costs
- Financial support to build depot charging infrastructure
- Long term reductions in operating costs
- Improved sustainability performance
- Future‑proofed fleet strategies
Because funding levels will reduce over time as the technology becomes more mainstream, early participation provides the best financial advantage.
Next Steps
If your business is considering switching to zero emission transport, now is the time to prepare:
- Review your fleet and future vehicle requirements.
- Assess depot infrastructure and potential charging layouts.
- Plan your application ahead of the grant windows.
- Speak with our team for guidance on vehicle options and charging solutions.
Want More Information?
Visit our website for expert guidance on zero‑emission HGVs and infrastructure planning.
You can contact us via email https://mcgroupltd.co.uk/contact_page/ or call us on 01622 710811
