Malawi allows private power producers to feed grid
New net-metering rules let individuals and companies sell surplus renewable energy to the national grid.
Malawi's Energy Minister Jean Mathanga launched new net-metering rules in Lilongwe on Wednesday, allowing private entities to feed surplus electricity from renewable sources into the ESCOM national grid. The country currently generates 564 megawatts, which falls short of rising demand. Mathanga stated that new approaches are needed to increase electricity generation and improve access to reliable power.
The pilot phase of the net-metering initiative identified 34 customers eligible to connect to the national grid, with nine already connected. Minister Mathanga also introduced policies to encourage electric vehicle adoption, which could help ease fuel shortages and lessen dependence on imported fuel. She urged Malawians to protect electricity infrastructure.
Managing Director for Sky Energy Schizzo Thomson said public awareness of electric vehicles could help cut transport costs. The Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) has threatened demonstrations over the fuel supply crisis, demanding the resignation of Minister Mathanga, who identified a shortage of foreign exchange as the root cause.