Malawi, World Bank Advanced Hydropower

Key Figures & Findings: The World Bank’s International Development Association has approved a $350 million grant to support Malawi’s 358.5 MW Mpatamanga Hydropower Storage Project (MHSP), a public-private partnership between the Malawian government and IFC. Co-developed with EDF and SN Malawi BV (owned by British International Investment, Norfund, and TotalEnergies), the project is expected to deliver clean energy while boosting grid reliability. Malawi’s Energy Minister, Ibrahim Matola, described the project as the least-cost option for addressing the nation’s rising electricity demand.

Statistics & Insights: MHSP is projected to generate 1,544 GWh of clean energy annually and electrify over one million households. Its total cost is estimated at above $1.5 billion and marks the largest foreign direct investment in Malawi’s history.

Future Implications: If construction proceeds as planned, the facility could enhance peak-hour power availability, support local industry, and improve national grid stability. Its completion may also strengthen Malawi’s case for further private-sector partnerships in the energy sector.

Source: Reuters