South African banking and investment services group Absa has announced that it is making R50-million available to provide solar energy grants to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that are its clients. More specifically, the grants will be offered to SMEs whose commercial properties are financed by the bank. “SMEs make a significant contribution to job creation and economic growth in South Africa,” pointed out Absa Relationship Banking SME Business managing executive Ronnie Mbatsane. “However, in many instances, the operating environment over the past few years has made it very difficult for these vital enablers to grow and thrive.”
