FNB has announced plans to improve the operational resilience of its ATM network across the country through installing uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems in more than 1 000 standalone ATMs, allowing customers to access services even during power outages. The first phase of the project will begin with installations at 300 ATMs by the end of this year.
Lytania Johnson, CEO of FNB personal segment, explains: “ATMs are crucial to ensuring that customers have access to financial services without having to visit the nearest branch. While millions of our customers use channels such as our FNB App, Online, and Cellphone Banking to access most services, many still use ATMs to perform a range of activities for day-to-day financial needs, so it is essential for our devices to be accessible at all times.”
Zibu Nqala, CEO of FNB points of presence, says: “Standalone ATMs are our top priority because they are frequently located in areas with no backup power. The installation of UPS systems is a crucial step in improving our operational resilience and mitigating the impact of power outages, such as loadshedding, on our customers. Our approach for phase one will be ATMs in locations with heavy device usage without no landlord backup power. These ATMs will be able to operate for at least four hours during interruptions in power, allowing customers to access services during both planned and unplanned outages.”
The development follows FNB’s recent commitment to equip 100 of its branches with solar power, demonstrating the organisation’s dedication to operational resilience and energy efficiency. The majority of FNB branches already have back-up power solutions in place to maintain service availability during power outages. FNB operates nearly 5 000 ATMs across South Africa and targets to have 90% of all ATM’s covered by alternate and back-up power supply by 2024. The installation of UPS systems at standalone ATMs coincides with the start of the summer season, which is associated with increased demand for financial services.