NBP wins ABF award for Rs 850m solar telecom financing

National Bank of Pakistan has been named winner of the "Sustainable Infrastructure Initiative of the Year – Pakistan" award at the Asian Banking & Finance Corporate & Investment Banking Awards 2026, according to a statement from the bank. The award, presented in Singapore, recognises the bank's role in structuring and arranging an Rs 850 million syndicated project finance facility for solar energy systems at cellular tower sites.

The transaction was arranged for Infraelectric (Pvt.) Limited, a renewable energy solutions provider. NBP said it advised, structured and arranged the Rs 850 million Islamic financing facility to support the installation of solar photovoltaic systems at cellular tower sites, a clean energy and decarbonisation initiative intended to make telecommunications infrastructure more energy-efficient.

Usman Shahid, SEVP and Group Chief of NBP's Corporate & Investment Banking Group, said the recognition reflected the bank's growing role in enabling sustainable infrastructure and mobilising capital towards projects that create both economic and environmental value. He added that NBP remained committed to working with clients and partners on financing solutions contributing to a more sustainable and resilient Pakistan.

The Asian Banking & Finance Corporate & Investment Banking Awards recognise performance, innovation and excellence in corporate and investment banking across Asia. The award is the latest in a series of sustainable finance transactions by Pakistani banks, as lenders respond to rising demand for renewable energy financing amid pressure on grid supply and fuel import costs.