Additional 29MW to reduce load shedding hours—minister

Minister of Energy Ibrahim Matola has assured Malawians of reduced load shedding hours following the adding of 29 megawatts (MW) to the national grid.

In an interview after visiting the Electricity Generation Company’s (Egenco) Tedzani and Nkula Falls power plants on Friday, the minister said the shortfall of 29MW from Tedzani II and IV has been addressed.

Matola said: “Engineers completed rehabilitation works at Tedzani II and IV by Thursday.

“This development adds 29MW to the system, allowing us to reduce the load shedding schedule. We ask Malawians to bear with us about the blackouts.”

Egenco chief executive officer William Liabunya said apart from 130MW from Kapichira Power Plant that was damaged by Tropical Storm Ana, all of their hydro power capacity of 240 MW is available.

He said: “We are producing 225 MW at peak hours in the evening, and give it to Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi Escom on regular basis.”

Liabunya said they are working around the clock to restore Kapichira Power Plant.

“We have lost 130MW following the closure of Kapichira because of damages caused by Tropical Storm Ana. I am pleased to inform you that procurement has started. We are optimistic to identify a contractor by end of May who will be on the ground come June,” he said.