By Burnett Munthali
President Lazarus Chakwera has today officially launched the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project by the Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (Escom) at Kanengo in Lilongwe. The $20.2 million initiative, supported by the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (Geapp), is poised to revolutionize electricity reliability and accessibility in Malawi.
Escom Board Chairperson Morgan Tembo described the launch as a “HU! HA!” moment for the corporation. He highlighted that the project represents a significant milestone in Escom’s strategy to address persistent power challenges.
“The BESS project acts like a power bank,” Tembo explained. “It captures excess energy generated during periods of low energy utilization and stores it for use during peak hours, ensuring a consistent electricity supply when demand is highest.”
Joseph Karanja Nganga, Vice President of Geapp, emphasized the global significance of the BESS project. Speaking at the event, he noted that the initiative aligns with commitments made at the Africa Climate Summit and CoP29, where nations pledged to enhance battery energy storage capacity to 1,500 gigawatts globally.
“This project reflects the spirit of ambition and innovation,” Nganga stated. “It is proof that Malawi is not merely a participant in the global climate agenda but a leader in adopting solutions that address energy and climate challenges.”
Malawi has long grappled with power outages and inconsistent electricity supply, which have hindered economic growth and industrial productivity. The BESS project is expected to:
1) By storing and redistributing energy during peak hours, the project will reduce the strain on Malawi’s power grid.
2) Reliable power supply will foster industrial and commercial activities, boosting economic development.
3) The project demonstrates Malawi’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions and its active role in the global climate agenda.
In his remarks, President Chakwera underscored the importance of innovation and strategic partnerships in tackling the nation’s energy challenges. He thanked Geapp for their support and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transforming Malawi’s energy sector.
“This project is more than just an energy solution; it is a symbol of what is possible when we work together to build a sustainable future,” Chakwera said.
The BESS project is expected to set the stage for further investments in renewable energy and energy storage solutions. As Malawi embarks on this transformative journey, the hope is that such initiatives will unlock the country’s potential, empowering businesses and communities alike.
With the successful launch of the BESS project, Malawi takes a significant step toward ensuring reliable energy for all, marking a new era in the nation’s pursuit of sustainable development.
