Doug Banks Renewable Energy Vision (DBREV) Scholarship 2026 Requirements & How To Apply

You must act quickly if you intend to apply for the DBREV Scholarship for 2026. 

The opportunity to pursue a two-year Master’s degree in renewable energy (or related field) opens only once a year with a strict deadline. 

Applicants who meet the criteria should ensure all documents are ready to avoid disqualification.

About the Organisation

The Doug Banks Renewable Energy Vision (DBREV) is an independent trust established in memory of the late Dr Doug Banks. 

Its mission is to build intellectual capacity in renewable energy, address energy poverty, and broaden energy access in Africa. 

It emphasises mentorship, public policy, research, and academic excellence.

Fields of Study Funded

The scholarship supports Master’s level postgraduate study in South Africa in fields including:

• Engineering
• Sciences (environmental, geographical)
• Finance, Economics, or Development Studies

Benefits for Recipients

Recipients of the DBREV Scholarship receive:

1. Funding for full tuition for the two-year Master’s programme at a recognised South African university.
2. The first year’s funding is unconditional (once registration is confirmed); second-year funding depends on satisfactory academic progress.
3. Mentorship support as part of the DBREV programme.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply, you must satisfy all of the following criteria:

1. Be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
2. Plan to start or already be enrolled in a full-time Master’s degree in a field relevant to renewable energy, energy access, energy poverty, or related areas.
3. Have an academic background in one of: Engineering, Science, Environment & Geographical Science, Finance, Economics, or Development Studies.
4. Be committed to using your skills to address energy poverty, energy access and to contribute to sustainable development and climate change mitigation.

How to Apply

1. Complete the online application form via the DBREV website.
2. Provide proof of registration or conditional admission for your Master’s programme if already accepted.

Required Documents

Typically, your application must include:

1. Certified copy of your South African ID or permanent resident documentation.
2. University academic transcripts and a degree certificate from a previous study.
3. Motivational statement & research proposal or description of intended area of study in renewable energy (showing alignment with DBREV’s mission).

Closing Date

For the 2026 academic year, the application deadline is 29 September 2025 at midnight.

Applications submitted after this date will not be accepted.

Contact Details

• Email: [email protected] (DBREV contact)
• Phone: 082 928 2682 or 072 738 3268
• For University of Pretoria-related enquiries: reach out via their funding office (contact details given in the UP advert)