Zero Carbon Charge Secures R100 Million from DBSA for Off-Grid EV Network

Zero Carbon Charge (CHARGE), a Cape Town-based startup pioneering a national network of off-grid solar powered electric vehicles (EV) charging stations, has secured a R100 million equity investment from the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA).

The funding will enable CHARGE to rollout charging stations every 150km along all national roads. Each station is entirely off-grid, powered by solar energy and supported by battery storage, reducing reliance on Eskom.

“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,” said Lebogang Seperepere, Acting Group Executive for Project Preparation at the DBSA. 

CHARGE is developing a nationwide intercity electric car charging network that is 100% off the grid and environmentally sustainable. The company currently has land approval for approximately 100 sites across the country.

In addition to promoting sustainable transport, CHARGE says its model delivers economic benefits to rural communities:

• Landowners receive 5% of annual electricity revenue, offering a stable income stream.
• Each charging site supports local jobs and nearby farm stalls.

“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,” concludes Joubert Roux, Founder of Zero Carbon Charge.