Malawi Signs 51 MW Hydropower PPA

Key Figures & Findings: Malawi’s Nyika Hydropower Group (NHG) has signed a 25‑year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with the Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM) to develop a 51 MW run‑of‑river hydropower project in Rumphi District. The project comprises three cascade schemes—Phoka (13 MW), Munonono (18 MW), and Chiweta (20 MW)—set to tap into northern Malawi’s river systems. This marks Malawi’s first utility‑scale hydroelectric plant in the north, with an expected environmental footprint minimized through run‑of‑river design  

Statistics & Insights:  At full operation, the plant should generate approximately 276 GWh annually—enough to supply an estimated 2.7 million people and increase national capacity by about 9.2%. Financial close is projected in 2027, with commercial operations scheduled by 2029  

Future Implications: If commissioned by 2029, this facility could strengthen Malawi’s energy mix by reducing reliance on southern hydropower, improving grid stability in northern and central regions, and supporting the national electrification goal of 32.4% by 2030. It may also catalyse further clean energy investment in the country’s underserved north.

 Source: Green Building Africa