In Malawi, the state of electricity consumption is notably challenged. The total electricity consumption in 2022 was about 2 TWh, with low-carbon sources contributing almost all of it, primarily through hydropower, which stood at around 1.7 TWh. In contrast, fossil fuels played a minimal role in electricity generation. When compared to the global average of 3649 kWh per person, Malawi’s per capita consumption stood at 89 kWh, highlighting a significant disparity. This low level of electricity generation can lead to a constrained ability for economic development, poorer quality of life for its citizens, and limited modernization of infrastructure, all of which are predicated on reliable and ample electricity supply.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and Enerdata. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Malawi?
Unfortunately, Malawi is witnessing a decline in its electricity generation. The latest figures show a substantial decrease from its 2014 levels, when consumption per person was 131 kWh. The consumption fell by 42 kWh from that record, portraying a worrying trend that could impede the nation’s progress. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation also declined from 123 kWh per person in 2014 to 85 kWh in 2022, indicating a decrease of 38 kWh. This downward trend must be reversed to support the nation's growth and sustainability efforts.
Suggestions
To enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, Malawi could learn from countries with successful solar and wind energy integration. China, with over 1100 TWh of solar and 1000 TWh of wind generation, exemplifies a commitment to harnessing sunlight and wind. Similarly, countries like India and Brazil have demonstrated significant solar and wind capacity. Countries with large-scale nuclear energy programs, such as the United States and France, offer another pathway, illustrating the potential of nuclear energy to provide a stable, reliable base of low-carbon electricity. By tapping into solar and nuclear potentials, Malawi can improve its electricity supply sustainably.
History
Historically, Malawi's journey with low-carbon electricity development has seen periods of slow gains and occasional setbacks. During the 1990s and early 2000s, there were only gradual increments in hydropower capacity, with sporadic increases, each around 0.1 TWh. The year 2010 saw a significant boost in hydropower generation with an increase of 0.3 TWh, followed by smaller increments in subsequent years. However, 2017 marked the beginning of declines with a drop of 0.1 TWh, sharply followed by a further decline of 0.4 TWh in 2018. In 2019, hydropower made a recovery with a notable increase of 0.3 TWh, though this was not sustained. These fluctuations showcase the need for a strong focus on stable and progressive growth in low-carbon energy sources like solar and nuclear for future prosperity.
