Malawi has commissioned its first utility-scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) as the country moves to improve electricity reliability, strengthen grid stability and support the integration of renewable energy into the national power system.
The Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM) Ltd inaugurated the 20MW/40MWh battery storage facility at Kanengo in Lilongwe on Friday, marking a major milestone in Malawi’s energy sector development.
The $20.245 million project, financed by the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP), is expected to enhance the flexibility and resilience of the country’s electricity grid by helping manage power fluctuations and improving supply stability.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Minister of Energy, Hon. Jean Sendeza Mathanga described the project as a significant step toward achieving Malawi’s long-term development goals under the Malawi 2063 strategy.
She said the country’s energy sector had for years been affected by dependence on weather conditions and limited generation flexibility, but the new battery storage system represents progress toward greater energy independence.
Hon. Mathanga stressed that dependable and affordable electricity is essential for industrial growth, noting that stable power supply is a foundation for achieving Malawi’s industrialisation ambitions.
She said the BESS facility would improve energy security, strengthen grid performance and support the country’s transition toward a more resilient electricity system.
According to the minister, the project will also help provide more reliable power to critical institutions such as hospitals, schools and businesses while enabling greater use of renewable energy sources, particularly solar power.
She thanked GEAPP for supporting the initiative and encouraged additional development partners to invest in similar projects that can accelerate Malawi’s energy transformation.
Chief Secretary to the Government, Justin Saidi said ESCOM had made improvements in operational performance and stakeholder engagement as part of efforts to address electricity supply challenges.
He said the government remained committed to supporting investments that would strengthen the country’s power sector and reduce electricity disruptions.
Representing GEAPP, Vice President Koech said the project highlights the importance of collaboration between governments, utilities and development organisations in advancing clean energy solutions.
She noted that the facility was developed through a partnership involving the Government of Malawi, ESCOM Ltd and GEAPP, with technical support from JIVO and Lahmeyer International.
Vice President Koech added that GEAPP is also supporting the creation of the Southern Africa Battery Energy Storage Systems Centre of Excellence at Mzuzu University, in collaboration with the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences.
The centre is expected to provide training, research and knowledge-sharing on battery storage technologies for energy sector professionals, policymakers, researchers and private sector participants across the region.