Assessing the impact of EHGV charging on distribution network infrastructure

The decarbonisation of Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) is essential to reduce carbon emissions in the transport sector. Battery electric HGVs (eHGVs) are one potentially viable solution, with numerous successful trials in recent years supporting their viability. However, challenges remain due to the large battery capacities of these vehicles, grid capacity limitations and the need for charging infrastructure deployment. Existing research has primarily focused on infrastructure at service stations for long-haul haulage with research on urban-focused HGV activities and depot charging comparatively scarce. Therefore, this study assesses the impact of installing eHGV chargers at depot sites across Scotland on the electrical distribution network. Using spatial mapping, the study associates existing depot sites with their primary substations and applies a probabilistic methodology to distribute chargers across depots based on fleet size under different future scenarios. The impact of this new demand on substation loading is then evaluated. The findings indicate that significant upgrades to network infrastructure will be necessary to support the high-power demands of eHGVs, particularly at substations near major depots. The study also emphasises the importance of coordinated planning among fleet operators, policymakers and distribution network operators to address these challenges.