CHAKWERA LAUNCHES LANDMARK BATTERY ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM PROJECT

President Lazarus Chakwera has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to reducing and ultimately eliminating energy poverty in Malawi.

Speaking at the launch of the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project in Kanengo, Lilongwe, Chakwera emphasized the importance of reliable and sustainable energy supply in accelerating development.

“This project will improve security and reliability where storage during low-usage hours will help us discharge adequate power when it is most needed,” said Chakwera.

The BESS project, valued as a ground-breaking initiative, boasts a 20-megawatt battery energy storage system, a first-of-its-kind in Africa.

Scheduled to be fully operational by June 2025, this innovative system is designed to enhance security and reliability by storing energy during low-usage hours for release during peak demand.

The Malawi leader also expressed optimism that this project will pave the way for Malawi to eradicate power outages, expand electricity access, and stimulate development through various profitable ventures for households and businesses.

Government aims to increase electricity access from 20% to 100% by 2030, with over half the population connected to the national grid.

“My administration remains focused on increasing electricity access from the current 20 percent to 100 percent by 2030 with more than half the population connected to the national grid,” he added.

In line with Malawi Vision 2063, the government is prioritizing a renewable energy future to mitigate the effects of climate change on the economy.