The Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) has made a R100-million equity investment in Zero Carbon Charge (Charge) for the development of a nationwide network of off-grid, solar-powered electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.
The investment aims to accelerate South Africa’s transition to a net-zero transport economy and reinforce climate-resilient infrastructure, aligning with the DBSA’s broader commitment to sustainable infrastructure projects that reduce carbon emissions and promote renewable energy solutions.
According to Ground News and Tech Financials, Charge plans to invest approximately R2.3 billion to establish 120 solar-powered charging stations across South Africa, focusing on ultra-fast charging capabilities along national roads, particularly addressing gaps in EV charging infrastructure in areas underserved by the national grid.
Each charging station will be completely off-grid, powered by solar energy and battery storage, eliminating dependence on Eskom and alleviating range anxiety for EV drivers.
The initiative also supports rural economies by providing landowners hosting charging stations with a share of electricity revenue and creating local jobs and economic activity in underserved regions.
The charging stations will feature cutting-edge 480 kW liquid-cooled supercharger systems sourced through a partnership with Chinese manufacturer Shanghai Magic Power Tech Co, enabling customers to charge EVs at maximum rates.
The DBSA’s investment is part of its broader strategy to support climate-friendly infrastructure projects and the Just Transition towards net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, embedding environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles throughout its investment process.
