Malawi Seeks New Power Sources as Electricity Demand Outpaces Supply

Malawi is widening investment in new electricity generation after national power supply reached only about 551 megawatts, far below the country's need of more than 700 megawatts, Energy Minister Dr Jean Mathanga told Parliament. She said government is turning to solar, coal-fired and hydropower projects to close the supply gap, improve electricity stability and support homes, businesses and public services.

The shortfall has continued to limit reliable electricity supply in many parts of the country. Increasing power generation has become a priority as demand rises from households, industries, schools and health facilities. Government believes that bringing new power plants into operation will reduce pressure on the national grid and create room for more electricity connections.

Mathanga said Malawi is not relying on one source of electricity. She noted hat government has identified hydropower sites in all three regions and is looking for investors to help build the projects. Solar and coal-fired plants also form part of the plan to increase electricity generation.

Government turns to multiple power projects

Mathanga pointed to the Mpatamanga Hydropower Project as one of the biggest projects planned to strengthen the national grid. Once completed, the plant is projected to supply about 380 megawatts of electricity, making it one of the largest additions to Malawi's power system.

She also confirmed that the African Development Bank has approved US$22.9 million to repair damaged infrastructure at Kapichira Power Station. The funding will rebuild facilities damaged in previous disasters, including a dam that is currently operating on a temporary arrangement.

Returning Kapichira Power Station to full capacity will improve the amount of electricity available on the grid and help reduce supply interruptions experienced in different parts of the country.

The combination of new power stations and repairs to existing infrastructure forms part of government's plan to improve electricity reliability while preparing for future demand.

Rural electrification continues alongside generation plan

While government works to increase electricity production, it is also extending electricity access to communities that are still without power.

Mathanga said the Malawi Rural Electrification Programme, known as MAREP, continues to serve as the main route for connecting underserved areas. Work under Phase 9 is in progress, while preparations are being made for Phase 10.

She urged Members of Parliament to work closely with District Councils so constituency proposals reach the ministry through the correct process. This, she said, will help projects receive proper consideration during future implementation.

The minister also pointed to the ACENT Project, which is running alongside MAREP. The project supports electricity connections for learning institutions, health facilities, training centres, homes and off-grid rooftop solar systems.

The programme is intended to improve access to electricity in places where extending the national grid may take longer or where alternative power systems can provide quicker access.

Increasing electricity generation and expanding connections are closely linked. Producing more power gives government greater capacity to connect new users while improving service for existing customers.

Mathanga's update showed that government is pursuing both goals at the same time. New investment in generation aims to reduce the national electricity deficit, while rural electrification projects seek to ensure that more communities benefit once additional power becomes available.