The Lereko Metier Sustainable Capital Fund

The Lereko Metier Sustainable Capital Fund (LMSC) is a pioneering sustainable capital fund that invests in the renewable energy, energy efficiency, water and waste management sectors.

LMSC is a resource efficiency and clean technology private equity fund that achieved a final close in late 2013 of R690 million with support from FMO, DEG, the Public Investment Corporation of South Africa, the International Finance Corporation and the Transnet Retirement Fund. Subsequently, aggregate funds under management, including co-investment pools, have more than doubled to a level of R1.4 billion as at June 2016. The increase occurred due to significant co-investment opportunities being secured and executed.

Lereko Metier Sustainable Capital

The Lereko Metier Sustainable Capital Fund (LMSC)

The Lereko Metier Sustainable Capital Fund exceeded its initial targets and secured support from leading local and international institutions. As a result, it has positioned itself as a credible development capital provider within the clean technology and infrastructure investment landscape. The fund focuses on scalable opportunities that align with both commercial viability and sustainable development outcomes.

Investment Focus and Sector Strategy

The fund specialises in development capital and project expansion, with a clear emphasis on bankable and proven technologies. It does not invest in unproven or unbankable innovations. Instead, it prioritises middle-market and later-stage investments where operational and financial risks are more defined.

Moreover, the fund targets clean technology sectors such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, water management, and waste solutions. These include water purification, water supply systems, sewage treatment, and sanitation services. In addition, the fund supports power generation projects, particularly in wind and solar energy. This sector-focused approach ensures alignment with regional development priorities and environmental commitments.

Geographic Scope and Investment Structure

The fund invests across South Africa and the broader Sub-Saharan African region. It typically provides equity investments ranging between $3 million and $20 million. However, individual investments are capped at 15% of the total fund size to maintain portfolio diversification.

In terms of ownership, the fund seeks equity stakes between 20% and 60%. This enables it to secure either controlling or significant minority positions. Consequently, the fund can actively influence governance and strategic direction while supporting long-term value creation.

Value Proposition and Impact Objectives

Lereko Metier Sustainable Capital Fund targets investments that generate both financial returns and measurable social and environmental benefits. Therefore, it integrates impact-driven objectives with commercial investment principles.

Furthermore, the fund leverages the capabilities of an established private equity platform alongside a specialised team with expertise in renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure. This combination strengthens its ability to identify, structure, and manage complex investments. In addition, its strong regional networks enhance deal flow and partnership opportunities.

Portfolio and Track Record

The fund has demonstrated its investment capability through participation in several large-scale renewable energy projects. Notably, it invested in the 50MW Bokpoort concentrated solar power plant in the Northern Cape. This project formed part of the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP) and represents a significant milestone in South Africa’s renewable energy rollout.

In addition, the fund partnered as an equity investor with a solar photovoltaic developer in projects awarded under earlier REIPPPP rounds. It has also participated in multiple wind energy projects in subsequent bidding rounds. These investments highlight the fund’s active role in advancing renewable energy infrastructure within the region.

Target Impact for The Lereko Metier Sustainable Capital Fund

The Fund is expected to have a significant development impact on its investees by:
•Reduction of CO2 and other GHGs by investing in renewable energy and cleaner technology projects, thus contributing to reducing carbon emissions;
•Supporting business with a focus on climate change and cleaner technology;
•Supporting regional developmental objectives and environmental commitments for investment in clean and efficient energy, water and waste sectors;
•Stimulating job creation through supporting job growth in new sectors;
• Implementing best practice ESG at the Fund and investee level.

Contact DTC for more information & assistance on funding through the Lereko Metier Sustainable Capital Fund.