Malawi’s Electricity Generation Company (EGENCO) has commissioned the first 10 megawatts (MW) phase of the Salima Solar Power Plant, marking a step towards expanding renewable energy generation and strengthening the country’s electricity supply.
The facility is the first stage of a planned 50 MW solar project intended to diversify Malawi’s generation mix, improve power reliability and support economic development.
The initial phase also includes a 3.5 MW battery energy storage system (BESS) designed to help stabilise the grid by managing fluctuations associated with solar power generation.
EGENCO Chief Executive Officer William Liabunya said construction of the battery storage system was already in progress, with installation expected to be completed by the end of the year.
He explained that the storage facility would help smooth variations in solar generation and improve the reliability of electricity delivered to the national grid as Malawi expands its use of renewable energy.
Mr. Liabunya also acknowledged the support provided by the Ministry of Finance, commercial banks and the Reserve Bank of Malawi during the project’s implementation. He said the assistance enabled EGENCO to meet its financial commitments, with no outstanding payments owed to the contractor.
Preparations are also underway for the remaining 40 MW of the project. Land has already been secured, while EGENCO is in the process of selecting a company to undertake feasibility studies for the second phase.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Energy Minister, Hon. Jean Mathanga reiterated the government’s commitment to increasing Malawi’s electricity generation capacity to meet growing demand.
The Salima Solar Power Plant forms part of the government’s broader efforts, through the Energy Ministry and state-owned generation companies such as EGENCO, to expand renewable energy and create a more diversified and reliable electricity generation mix.