From growing up in Hartbeespoort with plans to become a chartered accountant, Rentia van Tonder’s career has brought her to Standard Bank, where she heads up the power sector.

Tell us about your role in the bank and what a day at the office entails.

I work with the global team leading the strategy, approach and delivery of our value proposition across markets, products and clients.

Much of my day is spent with clients and internal stakeholders, discussing opportunities, potential partners, the regulatory framework, and how we can assist them in finding innovative funding solutions to bring their plans to fruition.

You’ve been with the bank for 11 years and at the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) for 17. That’s longer than most people stay with one employer. How has it benefitted you?

Yes, my stay at the IDC was long, especially looking back at it today, but I had five different roles. They ranged from economic research to advisory to heading up various sector-finance teams such as mining, wood and paper, and the green industries unit. It was one of the best training grounds.

I joined the bank with an open mind and I was unsure of how much value I would add. I soon realised how much more I can learn and do here to truly make a difference, not just in South Africa.

How has the conversation around climate change, sustainability and funding climate action changed during your career?

It’s interesting. I recall how the first conversations started, probably 18 years ago, around carbon emissions and energy saving. It wasn’t really a key driver for most businesses, but certainly something everybody was beginning to think about, along with new approaches to funding. Back then, this was mostly linked to incentives for reducing carbon emissions. It’s exciting to look back and see how far we’ve come.

You can’t talk about renewables in Africa without talking about a just transition. What does this mean to you?

I see it as a responsible approach to achieving energy security by transitioning to cleaner energy sources without losing sight of the social impact this will have. We have to ensure job creation and social upliftment and development throughout the growth cycle. The most important driver has always been growth through sustainable impact. Success is measured through real impact, sustainable development and visible growth on the ground.

What is needed to ensure that renewable power investments coming from outside Africa offer a win-win for both parties?

It should always be about Africa first. Clear policies, stable governments and a positive investment climate built on liberalised power markets will create an enabling environment that supports investor confidence, local inclusion and impactful growth.

We should fast track investment, funding and access to support where needed. This sector has the ability to uplift the continent, but we need commitment from governments to develop and implement policies, take a no-corruption approach and deliver on their commitments.