Malawi, China sign deal for 3-MW solar project at government complex

Malawi and China have completed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the construction of a 3-megawatt solar photovoltaic project at the Capital Hill government complex in Lilongwe, in a move aimed at boosting renewable energy generation and reducing public sector electricity costs.

Representatives of the Chinese Embassy presented the signed agreement from China’s Minister of Ecology and Environment, Huang Runqiu, to Malawi’s Minister of Energy, Jean Mathanga, who signed the document on behalf of the Malawian government, completing the bilateral process.

The project will establish a 3-MW solar photovoltaic carport system integrated with electric vehicle charging infrastructure and a net metering system, allowing surplus electricity generated at the site to be exported to Malawi’s national power grid.

Once completed, the solar installation is expected to generate about 5.4 million kilowatt-hours of clean electricity annually.

The Malawian government said the project could save Capital Hill approximately USD540,000 each year by reducing reliance on grid electricity while generating additional savings or revenue through the net metering arrangement.

Following the completion of the signing process, China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment is expected to begin implementing the project.

The initiative is intended to strengthen Malawi’s energy security, lower government operating costs and support the adoption of electric mobility within the public sector.

Officials said the project would also advance Malawi’s renewable energy and climate goals while deepening bilateral cooperation between Malawi and China in the energy sector.