FNB, WesBank and RMB have launched nav.energy, an integrated renewable energy platform designed to help South African businesses access financing, technical expertise and delivery partners for renewable energy projects.

Announced on 20 October, the platform combines existing capabilities across the three financial services brands, offering businesses different ways to finance, install and operate renewable energy systems.

“We have spent years building capabilities that work at scale for our own clients. This allows more businesses and consumers to access those same capabilities, in a way that is simple to use,” says Muneer Ismail, CEO of Commercial and Corporate Banking.

“We are focusing on energy because it is one of the most pressing issues facing South African businesses, and it is an area where we have deep experience.”

Renewable energy adoption requires businesses to consider technical requirements, financing arrangements, operating costs and long-term maintenance. The platform aims to simplify this process by bringing together funding, expertise and implementation partners.

According to the announcement, nav.energy will support different financing and ownership arrangements, depending on customers' capital availability and operational requirements.

Building on existing energy investments

RMB has supported renewable energy projects in South Africa for 14 years, providing more than R46 billion in lending to government-led programmes and private-sector initiatives.

At 30 June 2025, renewable energy projects in South Africa accounted for 76% of RMB's R53.5 billion infrastructure lending and investment portfolio, according to figures supplied by the bank.

WesBank, FNB Energy Solutions and Acacia, which supports renewable energy providers, contribute financing and sector expertise to the platform.

Financing and ownership options

The platform offers three approaches to renewable energy investment:

  • Direct ownership: Businesses can finance and own a renewable energy system through WesBank, taking responsibility for its operation and maintenance.
  • Rent to own: Customers make fixed monthly payments, with ownership transferring at the end of the agreed term.
  • Pay for energy consumed: Under a managed arrangement or power purchase agreement, the system is owned and operated on the customer's behalf, with payment linked to energy consumption.

The suitability and availability of each arrangement will depend on the customer's requirements and the applicable commercial terms.

Platform available to business customers

nav.energy is now available to business, commercial and corporate customers. Businesses can submit enquiries through the platform and consult specialists about suitable renewable energy solutions.

Planned developments include energy calculators, system-sizing tools and a supplier directory. The partners also intend to extend the offering to households.

Further information is available at nav.energy.