Standard Bank Group and Meridiam, an independent investment firm and asset manager, recently co-hosted an event themed “Unlocking Public Infrastructure Investment in South Africa.” The event aimed to explore investment opportunities in Africa’s alternative energy infrastructure.
Since 2015, Meridiam has built its investment reputation across Africa, partnering with Standard Bank for the past four years to develop alternative energy projects. One of their notable collaborations was the acquisition of BTE Renewables assets in Kenya, where they manage 250 MW of onshore wind and solar energy projects.
Zen Dlamini, Head of Public Sector and Infrastructure at Standard Bank, emphasized the bank’s commitment to partnering with organizations that share its vision for Africa’s growth. The event highlighted both the companies’ past successes and their plans for future projects.
The partnership aligns with South Africa’s recent reforms in the electricity sector, marked by President Ramaphosa’s signing of the Electrical Regulation Amendment Act. The Act introduces a competitive electricity market and encourages increased private sector involvement, a development lauded by Rudi Dicks, Head of the Project Management Office in the Presidency.
Both companies reiterated their dedication to exploring further opportunities in the energy sector throughout the continent. Thierry Déau, founder and CEO of Meridiam, stressed their shared mission with Standard Bank to drive Africa’s development by funding transformative projects.