DBSA Invests R100 Million to Boost EV Infrastructure with 120 Off-Grid Charging Stations

The Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) has committed R100 million to expand South Africa’s electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, funding the rollout of 120 off-grid, solar-powered charging stations in partnership with Cape-based green energy company, Zero Carbon Charge (Charge). This investment marks a bold step toward building a sustainable and accessible EV network nationwide.

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Driving Toward a Greener Future

Zero Carbon Charge plans to create a national network of solar-powered EV charging stations that operate entirely off the grid. By positioning each of the 120 stations roughly every 150km along major national highways, the company aims to make long-distance EV travel more practical and convenient, addressing a key obstacle to widespread EV adoption.

What distinguishes this project is its total independence from Eskom’s electricity supply. Each station runs on solar power and stores energy in batteries, ensuring uninterrupted service while promoting energy sustainability. This model drastically cuts reliance on fossil fuels and supports South Africa’s climate change mitigation efforts.

First Charging Station Now Operational

In November 2024, Charge launched its first station along the N12 at Farm Palmiet in Wolmaransstad, North West province. The facility features up to six DC fast-charging points and two AC charging points for plug-in hybrids. Using hardware from Chinese technology partners Greencore Energy Solutions and Magic Power, the DC chargers can fully power an EV in about 25 minutes, placing them among the fastest in the country.

The station doubles as a roadside stop, with a farm stall offering coffee and snacks to motorists while they wait. Landowners who host these facilities receive 5% of the annual electricity revenue, incentivising participation and boosting rural economic activity.

Putting Users First with a Digital Platform

Zero Carbon Charge developed a mobile app for both Android and iOS, simplifying the user experience at its stations. The app handles transactions, shows real-time availability, and offers travel support, aligning with the expectations of today’s tech-savvy drivers. This digital approach streamlines the EV charging experience while fostering wider adoption.

DBSA’s Strategic Support for Sustainable Growth

By backing this project, DBSA reinforces its role as a driver of transformative infrastructure. Lebogang Seperepere, acting group executive for project preparation at DBSA, emphasized the initiative’s broader impact:
“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.”

This initiative aligns with DBSA’s product innovation strategy, which prioritizes catalytic projects that deliver long-term socioeconomic and environmental returns. As electric mobility gains global momentum, DBSA’s investment positions South Africa to embrace cleaner transport solutions.

Powering Jobs and the Economy

Zero Carbon Charge founder, Joubert Roux, welcomed DBSA’s backing and praised its diligence during the investment process:
“I commend the DBSA for its unwavering professionalism and commitment throughout the due diligence process. We are honoured by their support and determined to deliver.”

Beyond environmental benefits, the rollout promises job creation, increased local manufacturing opportunities, and more sustainable land use. With South Africans showing rising interest in EVs and environmental responsibility, these charging stations could serve as a tipping point for mass EV adoption.

DBSA’s R100 million investment in Zero Carbon Charge’s solar-powered network signals a major advancement in South Africa’s energy and transportation sectors. With 120 stations scheduled to launch in 2025, the project not only strengthens EV infrastructure but also offers a proactive solution to load-shedding, high carbon emissions, and rural economic development.

As the network grows, South Africa moves closer to a cleaner, greener, and more resilient transportation future.