Escom’s 20MW battery energy storage project ready Feb 2026

Powering Malawi’s Growth: Escom’s 20MW Battery Energy Storage Project to Energize Economy by Feb 2026

Post was last updated: November 12, 2025

Key Business Points

  • Investment in the energy sector is expected to boost economic growth in Malawi, with the government committing to support the $16 million BESS Project to meet its February 2026 completion deadline.
  • Improved electricity reliability will be achieved through the addition of 20MW to the national electricity grid, enhancing access and stability for businesses and industries.
  • Opportunities for local entrepreneurs may arise from the project, particularly in the manufacturing and mining sectors, which are expected to benefit from the increased energy supply and reliability.

The energy sector is a crucial component of Malawi’s economy, and the government is taking steps to invest in its development. The BESS Project, funded by the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (Geapp), aims to enhance electricity reliability and access by adding 20MW to the national electricity grid. This project is expected to have a significant impact on the country’s economy, particularly in the manufacturing and mining sectors, which are critical drivers of growth.

According to Minister of Natural Resources, Energy and Mining Jean Mathanga, the government will provide the necessary support to ensure the project meets its completion deadline. This commitment to investing in the energy sector is expected to attract more investment and boost economic growth. Mathanga emphasized the importance of the energy sector in facilitating growth in other sectors, saying "zingathe zinanso zikugwira ntchito" (the energy sector is key to facilitating growth).

The project, which is currently at 70 percent completion, involves the installation of batteries that will store power generated by Independent Power Producers from solar projects. This will improve supply stability and reliability, which is critical for businesses and industries. As Electricity Supply Corporation Malawi (Escom) acting chief executive officer Engineer Sinosi Maliyano noted, "kuba basi ndi kulemera kwa chombo" (having a stable power supply is crucial for businesses).

The 20MW generated by the BESS Project is expected to benefit industries at Kanengo Industrial Area, which will have a positive impact on the local economy. With the government’s commitment to supporting the project, local entrepreneurs may see opportunities arise in the manufacturing and mining sectors. As the project progresses, it will be important for businesses to stay informed about the developments and potential opportunities that may emerge. By investing in the energy sector, Malawi is taking a significant step towards economic growth and development, and the BESS Project is a key component of this strategy.

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Vanessa Banda
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