As the nation struggles with inadequate access to electricity, particularly in rural areas, energy sector stakeholders are advocating for the accelerated implementation of decentralized renewable energy solutions to ensure a sustainable and equitable energy future.
The players held a National Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue on Energy Access and Transition in Lilongwe which brought together representatives from the government, civil society organizations (CSOs), the private sector, and community groups.
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The event focused on advancing Malawi’s energy transition by addressing the challenges of overreliance on hydropower, the impact of climate change, and the urgent need to provide affordable, clean energy to underserved communities.
In an interview with Nthanda Times, Julius Ng’oma, National Coordinator of CISONECC emphasized the need to move from conversation to concrete action.
According to Ng’oma, there is a need for the country to start focusing on decentralised energy sources, saying at the moment Malawi’s energy landscape remains heavily dependent on hydropower, which constitutes the bulk of the country’s energy supply.
“The time for discussions and plans has passed. Now, we must prioritize implementation. Decentralized renewable energy systems, such as solar mini-grids and off-grid solar solutions, are the key to expanding electricity access to rural areas and addressing the energy needs of the most vulnerable communities,” said Ng’oma.
Ng’oma further stressed that the focus should not only be on increasing access to energy, but also on ensuring that energy systems are resilient enough to withstand the challenges posed by climate change. He pointed out that decentralized solutions are not just about providing electricity; they are also about preparing communities for future environmental shifts, making energy systems more sustainable in the long run.
As of 2023, only 25.9% of the population has access to electricity, and the majority of Malawians, particularly in rural regions, continue to rely on biomass for cooking, contributing to deforestation and environmental degradation.
In a separate interview, Thokozani Malunga, Deputy Director at the Ministry of Energy, emphasized the government’s commitment to increasing energy access, particularly in rural areas. However, he stressed that more needs to be done to speed up the transition.
“The national grid cannot reach every corner of the country in the near future. Decentralized energy systems offer a more immediate solution to providing reliable and clean energy to the people who need it most. We must focus on scaling up these renewable technologies to ensure they reach all Malawians, especially those in remote areas,” said Malunga.
Despite the promising examples of success, stakeholders at the dialogue recognized the ongoing challenges, particularly in securing adequate financing for renewable energy projects.
Malunga highlighted the need for greater investment, both from the government and international partners, to overcome the affordability barrier that still prevents many rural communities from accessing clean energy solutions.
“Investment is crucial to make renewable energy affordable and accessible to all,” Malunga noted.
In a separate interview, Illari Aragon, Climate Justice Policy Lead at Christian Aid, reflected on a recent field visit to solar-powered communities, Sitolo Solar Mini grid in Mchinji, where the benefits of clean energy were evident.
“It was inspiring to witness firsthand the impact of solar energy on communities. Not only are homes being powered, but businesses are thriving, children are studying after dark, and lives are being transformed. Renewable energy has the potential to completely change the trajectory of these communities, and it’s critical that we scale these solutions across the country,” she said.
Annie Chambukila, a successful businesswoman from Sitolo Village, has seen remarkable growth in her ventures since the introduction of solar-powered electricity in her community in 2019.
With the ability to keep her shop open until 9 PM, Annie has expanded her business of freezing and doughnut preparation, significantly increasing her income.
“Before the electricity, I was forced to close my shop early, but now I can stay open until 9 PM, preparing doughnuts and freezing, which has greatly boosted my business and helped me support my children’s education,” she said.
Through the solar power, she has been able to pay for her daughter’s education, now in her third year at Catholic University of Malawi, as well as for her other children’s school fees.
The example of the Sitolo Mini-grid demonstrates the transformative potential of renewable energy, providing clean, affordable, and reliable power to households and businesses.
