The MCEP Energy Resilience Transition Fund: Infrastructure Programme (ERTF-IP) is a sub-programme of the IDC’s Manufacturing Competitiveness Enhancement Programme (MCEP). Its core objective is to incentivise companies that adopt alternative energy solutions to source solar panels, inverters, and batteries from local South African manufacturers or assemblers.
The facility provides an interest-free (0%) loan equal to 15% of the procurement cost of locally manufactured or assembled photovoltaic (PV) panels, inverters, and batteries. The loan is capped at R10 million per applicant and is disbursed directly to the component suppliers — not to the applicant — upon submission of invoices.
Eligible applicants include SMEs and Energy Service Companies (ESCOs) that already qualify for IDC Energy Resilience funding. The programme is structured to promote local industrial manufacturing of green energy components while helping businesses transition to cleaner, more resilient energy infrastructure.
To qualify, applicants must be at least B-BBEE Level 4 at the time of application, or demonstrate a credible plan to achieve Level 4 status within 24 months of approval. Additionally, no retrenchments are permitted for the duration of the loan facility.
The ERTF-IP sits within the MCEP suite, which broadly supports South African manufacturing competitiveness. Applicants are encouraged to apply through the IDC’s standard funding application process and can contact the IDC directly for guidance.
The loan may be used exclusively to fund the procurement cost of locally manufactured or assembled solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, inverters, and batteries. The programme covers 15% of the invoice value for these qualifying components, with funds disbursed directly to the component supplier. It does not cover installation costs, imported components, or other energy infrastructure costs outside the defined PV component scope.
Applications are processed through the IDC’s standard funding application process under the MCEP umbrella. Prospective applicants should first confirm that their project qualifies for IDC Energy Resilience funding, as this is a prerequisite for the ERTF-IP. Upon approval, the applicant presents invoices from locally approved component suppliers, and the IDC disburses the loan funds directly to those suppliers. Applicants are encouraged to contact the IDC via the Contact Us page or through the MCEP programme team for guidance on the application process and documentation requirements.
Not applicable
Contact the IDC through the following channels:
Most applications are delayed or declined due to incomplete submissions. Preparing the items below upfront will significantly improve your chances.
Core documents (required for almost all funds)
Project‑specific documents (depending on the fund)
Additional requirements
Timelines vary by fund and depend heavily on the quality and completeness of your application.
Email Address:
siyabongam@idc.co.za
Contact Number:
0860 693 888
Use the following tools to help you apply:
