Trade vans come back mud-covered at 4pm and leave at 7am. They want a reliable overnight AC charge more than a rapid top-up, and they need a lead that survives being driven past. Mount chargers where the van parks nose-in at the end of the day, not beside the cement mixer because the wall was handy. Workshop loads at 7am can coincide with a final boost. Load management or a staggered start avoids a trip that delays a gang.
How charging electric vans in a builders yard moves the job
A single unmanaged 7 kW point per van is simple and can overload a small unit. Count them.
What goes wrong with charging electric vans in a builders yard
The mistake is a domestic wallbox at ankle height in a turning circle.
Point at charging electric vans in a builders yard in the pack
The drawing should show van positions, lead routes and the morning peak load.
Charging electric vans in a builders yard
Measure a van with ladders and a tow bar. Car tether lengths are often short.
- Overnight AC matches van schedules
- Keep posts out of the turning circle
- Morning workshop load clashes with a boost
- Home charging may be the real plan if vans go home
Charging electric vans in a builders yard: questions for the first visit
If vans go home with staff, the yard may only need a top-up and the home charger is the real asset. Say which pattern you run.
Frequently asked questions
Do vans accept 22 kW?
Some do and many do not. Check the van, not the yard gossip.
Can we use a commando hook-up?
A proper commando circuit can suit some vans and still needs to be designed. It is not an extension reel.
What about tool batteries?
They are a separate small load. Do not pretend the van charger is a site socket for saws.
Is a grant possible?
Workplace or fleet schemes might contribute if you qualify. Check the live rules for vans on site.
Core buying guides
Start with these high-intent guides, then dig into the rest of the library.
Related guides
Sources and further reading
How this guide was prepared
This guide was written by the Local EV Installers Editorial Team. We compare official guidance, legislation and established consumer information, separate general information from project-specific advice, and show publication dates and sources. We do not accept installer accreditation claims at face value.