The National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD), a leasing bank in the UAE, has become the first bank in the UAE to launch a solar-powered ATM.

NBAD’s first solar ATM became operational recently at Al Bateen Branch in Abu Dhabi.

“We are proud to be the first bank in the UAE to launch a green ATM,” said Suvo Sarkar, the general manager of consumer & elite banking at NBAD.

“As the number one bank in the UAE, NBAD strives to be at the forefront of offering superior banking products and services. As part of our CSR initiatives, we hope to be the 'trend-setter' in adopting solar power for future ATMs in this country.'

“NBAD’s rollout of solar-powered ATMs will reduce our carbon footprint, and presumably act as an example of how banks can contribute to the sustainability of the environment,” he added.

The NBAD's green ATM, launched in cooperation with Apex Power Concepts, is powered by solar panels installed on the branch’s roof. The panels are connected to a circuit breaker board, which feeds a power controller where part of the collected energy is stored for the ATM’s night operation.

NBAD, which has more than 110 branches and 429 ATMs all over the UAE, aims to eventually implement this solution in all NBAD branches as well as at stand alone offsite ATMs, a statement said.

“CSR at NBAD is a way of doing business. Therefore, we adopt methods and technologies that are aligned with this strategy,” said Ahmed Al Naqbi, the head of channels & electronic banking services at NBAD.

“In addition to delivering quality products and services, NBAD differentiates itself in the market by its corporate sustainability credentials.”

NBAD also plans to rollout eco-friendly cards that have been produced from recycled products, according to the statement. – TradeArabia News Service