The Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (Escom) has launched a US$6.3 million (about K11 billion) project to replace ageing wooden transmission poles with prestressed concrete poles in a major investment aimed at improving electricity reliability, reducing power outages and strengthening the country’s transmission network.Top Banker Alfred Nhlema heads ESCOM Board
The project will involve replacing deteriorating wooden poles along the 66kV Mapanga–Fundis Cross and 132kV Nkula B–Phombeya No. 1 transmission lines, two key pieces of infrastructure that play an important role in delivering electricity across Malawi.
Speaking during a tour of the Mapanga–Fundis Cross transmission line, Escom Chief Public Relations Officer Pilirani Phiri described the investment as a long-term solution that will significantly improve the reliability of electricity supply while reducing maintenance costs associated with ageing infrastructure.
“This is a long-term investment in reliability that will reduce outages, cut maintenance costs and strengthen Malawi’s electricity network for generations to come,” said Phiri.
He explained that many of the existing wooden transmission poles have reached the end of their operational lifespan after years of exposure to harsh weather conditions, termites and natural deterioration. Replacing them with prestressed concrete poles will increase the durability of the transmission network and minimise the risk of pole failures that often lead to prolonged electricity interruptions.ESCOM Signs Transmission Connection Agreement with Press Energy Limited
According to Escom, the use of prestressed concrete poles is expected to enhance the stability of the national grid because they require less maintenance and have a much longer service life than conventional wooden poles. The upgrade is also expected to improve the utility’s operational efficiency by reducing the frequency of emergency repairs.
The investment forms part of Escom’s broader strategy to modernise Malawi’s electricity transmission infrastructure as demand for reliable power continues to grow from households, businesses, industries and public institutions.
A dependable electricity supply remains one of the key requirements for economic growth, industrial development and improved public services. Frequent power interruptions have long been identified as a major challenge affecting productivity and increasing operating costs for businesses across the country.
Besides improving electricity reliability, the project is also expected to create employment opportunities for Malawians. Escom says between 150 and 200 jobs will be generated through the establishment of Malawi’s first prestressed concrete pole manufacturing plant.
The manufacturing facility will produce concrete poles required for the ongoing transmission line replacement programme while helping develop local expertise in electricity infrastructure manufacturing. The project is also expected to reduce the country’s dependence on imported transmission materials and strengthen the local supply chain.ESCOM Board and Staff Union Align to Drive Corporate Turnaround
The creation of the manufacturing plant is expected to benefit skilled and semi-skilled workers while supporting technology transfer and capacity building within Malawi’s energy sector.
Industry experts have consistently highlighted the importance of investing in resilient transmission infrastructure to reduce technical losses and improve the efficiency of electricity delivery. Concrete poles are widely recognised for their strength, resistance to fire, termites and extreme weather, making them a more sustainable alternative to traditional wooden poles.
The ongoing project reflects Escom’s commitment to improving service delivery by investing in infrastructure capable of meeting Malawi’s future electricity needs. As electricity demand continues to increase, the utility says strengthening transmission lines will play a critical role in ensuring reliable power reaches consumers across the country.
Upon completion, the upgraded transmission lines are expected to improve network stability, reduce unplanned outages and lower long-term maintenance costs. The investment is also expected to contribute to Malawi’s broader development agenda by supporting industrialisation, attracting investment and enhancing access to dependable electricity.
With the K11 billion project now underway, Escom believes the replacement of ageing transmission infrastructure represents another important step towards building a stronger, more resilient and modern electricity network that will serve Malawi for decades to come.
