Zero Carbon Charge (CHARGE), South Africa’s first company to pioneer a national network of off-grid, solar-powered ultra-fast EV charging stations, has announced a R100m (US$5.6m) equity investment from the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA).
CHARGE says this strategic investment marks a significant endorsement of its mission to build climate-resilient infrastructure and accelerate South Africa’s transition to a net-zero transport economy.
“This show of faith by the DBSA is not just financial—it is symbolic. We are truly grateful,” said Andries Malherbe, director and co-founder of CHARGE.
The funding will enable the rollout 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 says its 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,” said Joubert Roux, founder of Zero Carbon Charge. “We are honoured by their support and 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.
