FNB, WesBank, and RMB Launch nav.energy Platform
The new digital service connects South African businesses with renewable energy funding and delivery partners.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Electric Vehicles
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Is now a good time for businesses to transition to renewable energy solutions?
FNB, WesBank, and RMB have launched nav.energy, a dedicated platform designed to simplify the adoption of renewable power for businesses in South Africa. The service integrates funding options, energy expertise, and delivery partners into a single access point.
Why it matters
The platform aims to reduce the significant complexity businesses face when transitioning to sustainable power sources. By streamlining access to technical and financial support, it seeks to improve energy resilience for companies across the country.
RMB has committed over R46 billion to renewable energy projects over the past 14 years. These investments currently represent 76% of the bank's total R53.5 billion infrastructure lending and investment portfolio.
The players
FNB
First National Bank is a major South African financial institution providing a range of banking services to individuals and businesses.
WesBank
WesBank is a prominent South African provider of vehicle and asset finance solutions.
RMB
Rand Merchant Bank is an investment bank that offers advisory, financing, and trading services to corporate and institutional clients.
The details
Businesses can choose from three distinct models through the platform: direct ownership, rent-to-own agreements, or managed pay-for-energy usage. The portal is designed to provide end-to-end support for projects from planning to delivery.
Timeline
30 June 2025: End of the RMB reporting period for infrastructure lending statistics.
20 October 2026: Official launch date of the nav.energy platform.
Roadmap
This move mirrors the broader shift of financial institutions becoming active participants in the national energy transition. By positioning themselves as energy intermediaries, these banks are evolving beyond traditional lending to secure a key role in the long-term energy infrastructure sector.
Businesses can now access a centralised portal to compare different energy financing models, potentially reducing the capital barriers to adopting solar or other renewable systems. This platform simplifies the procurement process, helping companies better manage their energy overheads and long-term operating costs.
The takeaway
The platform simplifies the transition to renewables by offering flexible financing models like rent-to-own. Business owners should evaluate these specific financial structures to determine which best fits their operational requirements and capital availability.
Further reading
For broader trends in sustainable energy infrastructure, visit the Electric Vehicles section.
More information
To explore funding models and energy tools for your business, visit the nav.energy business energy solutions portal.
Live Poll
Is now a good time for businesses to transition to renewable energy solutions?
