Aegis Energy is pushing ahead with plans to open a major M25 commercial vehicle charging hub after securing a site at Dartford and a significant grid connection at the former Littlebrook Power Station.

Strategically located just 1.4 miles from the Dartford Crossing at a key M25 freight interchange, the site will be turned into a multi-energy refuelling hub for vans and HGVs, supporting a nationwide effort to decarbonise the commercial vehicle sector. The site will include bookable, high-speed electric charging alongside multi-energy alternatives, including bio-CNG and HVO.

Purchased from FTSE100 logistics real estate investor and manager Tritax Big Box, and partner Bericote Properties, the site was chosen as a key gateway for freight travelling between London, the Midlands and continental Europe via the Port of Dover.

Michael Shaw, CEO of Aegis Energy, said: “Every day, thousands of vans and HGVs pass through this corridor moving goods between London, the Midlands and continental Europe. If we want fleets to switch to cleaner vehicles at scale, the infrastructure has to sit exactly where those journeys happen. Securing this site allows us to do just that, placing reliable charging and low-carbon fuels right on one of the busiest logistics routes in the country.”

Aegis Energy is making plans to engage and work with the local community, council, businesses and stakeholders ahead of submitting a planning application in 2026.

Once fully operational, the hub will drive a substantial reduction in carbon emissions. By replacing diesel with EV charging and clean fuels, the site targets tailpipe CO2 emission cuts of 60-70% and 85-100%, respectively.

Aegis Energy is building a UK network of clean, multi-energy refuelling hubs for commercial vehicles. The green startup secured major funding last year after Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners, a specialist global investment manager, took a stake in the business and pledged £100m in funding to lead the creation of its new hubs.

The sites are designed to accommodate both heavy trucks and vans, with space for dozens of vehicles to refuel/recharge simultaneously.

Lord Deben, chair of the Council for Net Zero Transport and former Environment Secretary, said: “Britain has made enormous progress in decarbonising cars, but commercial transport remains one of the biggest challenges. Projects like this are exactly what we need; practical infrastructure that gives hauliers and fleet operators the confidence to move away from fossil fuels while keeping our economy moving.”

Alongside secure parking, the Dartford hub will provide improved driver welfare facilities with clean toilets, calm rest areas and quality food services designed to support those working long hours on the road and in the business park.

Charlie Withers, director of development at Tritax Big Box REIT Plc, said: “We are pleased to complete the sale of this Dartford site to Aegis Energy. As the logistics sector evolves alongside the transition to lower-carbon transport, sites located on major freight corridors are increasingly well placed to support new forms of infrastructure.

“This transaction reflects our commitment to supporting developments that contribute to more sustainable supply chains. Through our responsible investment approach, we aim to create long-term value for investors, occupiers and the communities surrounding our assets.”