Malawi's electricity consumption in 2022 was predominantly low-carbon with nearly all its clean electricity coming from hydropower, amounting to about 1.75 TWh. This clean energy source generated almost 2 TWh, with only a negligible amount attributed to other forms of low-carbon energy like biofuels and solar. Overall, the electricity consumption per person was significantly lower, at 89 kWh per person, compared to the global average of 3781 kWh per person. This huge gap highlights the pressing need for Malawi to ramp up its electricity generation. Low levels of electricity generation can hinder economic growth, limit access to modern conveniences, and slow progress in crucial areas like education, healthcare, and industry. The country’s reliance on a single, albeit low-carbon, energy source like hydropower also poses challenges given climate change impacts and fluctuating water levels.
Is Electricity Growing in Malawi?
The data indicates that electricity consumption in Malawi has seen a decline rather than growth. The most recent consumption figure of 89 kWh per person represents a drop of 42 kWh from the previous high of 131 kWh per person recorded in 2014. This decline is mirrored in the low-carbon electricity generation as well, which decreased from 123 kWh per person in 2014 to 85 kWh per person in 2022. This downward trend in both total and clean electricity usage signals an alarming stagnation in Malawi's energy sector, which could impede future development. It is crucial for Malawi to revitalize its electricity generation, especially focusing on clean energy to meet growing demands while minimizing environmental impacts.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Malawi can learn from successful regions around the world. The People's Republic of China and India have made tremendous strides in harnessing wind and solar power, generating over 1000 TWh from each source in China and substantial amounts from solar in India. By harnessing the vast solar potential within its borders, Malawi can significantly increase its clean energy supply. Additionally, adopting nuclear power as seen in the United States and France, which generate significant amounts of clean electricity, can provide Malawi with a stable and reliable low-carbon energy source. Drawing inspiration from these countries, Malawi can implement policies and infrastructural developments that embrace solar and potentially nuclear energy to foster a sustainable and energy-secure future.
History
Historically, the growth of low-carbon electricity in Malawi was primarily driven by hydropower. The 1990s and early 2000s saw small but steady increments in hydropower generation, with notable increases in 1992, 1997, 1998, and from 2000 to 2002. The pace of growth wavered thereafter, with periodical declines such as in 2017 and a significant drop in 2018. This fluctuation in hydropower generation emphasizes the importance of diversifying Malawi's energy mix. Exploring solar additions, as was attempted in 2018, can offer more consistent growth. By prioritizing clean energy development, Malawi can overcome the limitations posed by its historical dependence on a single energy source and ensure a resilient electricity future.