By Burnett Munthali
In a significant step towards strengthening Malawi’s energy infrastructure, President Lazarus Chakwera on 25 November 2024 Monday morning officially launched the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Project at Kanengo in Lilongwe. The $20.2 million initiative, implemented by the Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (Escom), is backed by the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP).
Escom Board Chairperson Morgan Tembo hailed the launch as a transformative milestone for the country’s energy sector. Describing it as a “HU! HA!” moment, Tembo underscored that the BESS Project marks a critical phase in Escom’s efforts to enhance the reliability and accessibility of electricity across Malawi.
“The BESS Project operates much like a power bank,” Tembo explained. “It captures excess energy generated during periods of low demand and makes it available during peak hours, ensuring uninterrupted power supply.”
The innovative system is expected to significantly reduce the persistent power outages that have long plagued Malawi, boosting economic activities and improving quality of life for many citizens.
Joseph Karanja Nganga, Vice President of GEAPP, emphasized the global significance of the project, linking it to the broader climate agenda. “The BESS Project reflects the spirit of ambition and innovation that was championed at the Africa Climate Summit and reinforced at COP29, where the global community committed to 1,500 gigawatts of battery energy storage,” he said.
Nganga also praised Malawi’s leadership in renewable energy solutions, highlighting that the country is not merely a participant but an active contributor to the global climate action agenda.
The launch of the BESS Project comes at a critical time when Malawi is grappling with energy deficits that have hindered industrial growth and economic development. By addressing these challenges, the project is expected to unlock new opportunities for businesses and households alike, aligning with the government’s broader vision for sustainable development.
As President Chakwera officially inaugurated the system, he reiterated his administration’s commitment to tackling the country’s energy crisis. “This project demonstrates what we can achieve when we align innovation with global partnerships,” he said, expressing gratitude to GEAPP for their unwavering support.
With the BESS Project now operational, Malawi takes a decisive step towards energy resilience, positioning itself as a model for renewable energy adoption in the region.
