Work has started on a 400 kV transmission line that will feed power from Mozambique to Malawi.

Once complete, the US$62 million line will provide 50 MW to Malawi, according to ESI Africa. The first phase of construction will run from Matambo in the Tete province of Mozambique, cross the Malawian border via the southern districts of Mwanza and Neno, and end in Phombeya in the Balaka district.

The second phase will comprise a US$21 million expansion of the Matambo substation to guarantee reliable power supply.

The Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi reports that more than 1 000 jobs will be created during construction.

The project forms part of the 2018 to 2043 SADC master plan for electricity infrastructure, which aims to integrate Mozambique with SADC countries. It also follows power-generation deficits caused by Cyclone Ana earlier this year, which resulted in the loss of 128 MW at the Kapichira hydropower station on the Shire river. Lazarus Chakwera, President of Malawi, says the interconnector line between the countries is urgent and strategic. ‘This project will cushion Malawi against future power losses due to unforeseen and uncertain circumstances. This interconnector will assist in closing the gap between power supply and demand in Malawi, which is adversely affecting our agriculture, the manufacturing industry, and delivery of services.’

10 May 2022
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