Zero Carbon Charge (CHARGE), South Africa’s first company to pioneer a national network of off-grid, solar-powered ultra-fast electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, announced a R100 million equity investment from the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA).
This strategic investment marks a significant endorsement of CHARGE’s mission to build climate-resilient infrastructure and accelerate South Africa’s transition to a net-zero transport economy, the company says.
“This show of faith by the DBSA is not just financial — it is symbolic. We are truly grateful,” says Andries Malherbe, Director and Co-founder of CHARGE.
The funding will enable the roll-out of CHARGE’s ultra-fast charging stations every 150km along all national roads. Each site is fully off-grid, powered by solar energy and supported by battery storage — eliminating reliance on Eskom and addressing range anxiety for EV drivers across the country.
Lebogang Seperepere, Acting Group Executive for Project Preparation at the DBSA, commented: “As the DBSA we continue to work with our partners to find solutions that benefit the economy and society at large. We are happy to have invested R100 million in support of Zero Carbon Charge’s off-grid EV charging, which will not only assist in growing the EV market in South Africa, but also create jobs, support the economy and mitigate climate change.”
Beyond clean transport, CHARGE’s model creates meaningful impact to the rural economy:
• Landowners receive 5% of annual electricity revenue, offering a stable income stream, especially during climate volatility.
• Local jobs and farm stalls are supported around each site, anchoring economic growth in rural communities.
“I commend the DBSA for its unwavering professionalism and commitment throughout the due diligence process,” says Joubert Roux, Founder of Zero Carbon Charge. “We are honoured by their support and are determined to deliver.”
The DBSA’s Product Innovation Unit is designed to back catalytic infrastructure projects that deliver environmental and socio-economic returns at a macro scale. CHARGE’s integrated approach—combining renewable energy, clean mobility and inclusive rural development — exemplifies this mandate.
Charging time remains a worry for many South Africans considering an electric vehicle, who still see it as a disruption rather than a quick stop at a filling station. That view is starting to shift.
The winners of the 2026 Automotive Business Council | naamsa Accelerator Awards were announced at the recently held Auto Week 2026, which took place in eThekwini, KZN.
GWM has expanded its local SUV line-up with the introduction of the all-new Haval H7. Replacing the outgoing model, the newcomer blends boxy styling, advanced technology and a choice of petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, giving buyers a versatile family SUV with genuine all-terrain credentials.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Have you ever noticed that anybody driving slower than you is an idiot, and anyone going faster than you is a maniac?
George Carlin
Charging time remains a worry for many South Africans considering an electric vehicle, who still see it as a disruption rather than a quick stop at a filling station. That view is starting to shift.
South Africa has taken important steps to position itself within the global electric vehicle (EV) industry, but industry stakeholders argue that further policy adjustments are needed if the country is to accelerate adoption and support long-term investment in clean transport infrastructure.
As fuel prices and operating expenses continue to challenge South African businesses, alternative energy solutions are receiving greater attention.
