Energy Minister Ibrahim Matola has urged independent power producers (IPPs) to work with speed so that the country can meet its energy needs.
He cited the 10-megawatt (mw) Salima Solar Power Project as one of the IPP initiatives that were pregnant with potential.
Initially launched in November 2023, the 18-month project was slated for completion by 2025. It has, however, experienced significant setbacks, with groundwork only commencing in July 2024.
During a site visit on Wednesday, Matola told contractor Chint Electric Company and Electricity Generation Company (Egenco) to work with speed on issues that concern them.
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“This is a flagship project under President Dr Lazarus Chakwera and I am disappointed with the current pace of development.
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“I have directed Egenco and the contractor to conduct minuted meetings every fortnight and produce comprehensive progress reports. Excuses will no longer be tolerated, and tangible progress must be observable on the ground,” Matola said.
Matola committed to providing the government’s support to resolve hurdles that were affecting the project’s progress.
“While we recognise that devaluation-related challenges have impacted the project, these economic factors should not compromise equipment standards or project quality,” he said.
Chint Electric Company attributed the delays to logistical challenges but reported some positive developments.
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Company officials assured the minister that ground clearing was complete, machinery had arrived and that some items, including solar panels, were already on site.
The officials said additional components were expected to arrive in the country soon. Egenco Chief Executive Officer Maxon Chitao expressed optimism that the project would be completed and help the country meet its energy goals.
The $11.5 million project, launched in 2023, is expected to be completed by December 2025.
It represents the first phase of a scalable 20 mw solar power plant, to be executed in two phases of 10mw each.
The plant will feature an advanced battery storage system with a 2.5MWh capacity to enhance power system stability during periods of intermittent sunlight or unexpected demand fluctuations.
The generated power will be transmitted through Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi’s Nanjoka Substation.
