Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM) Limited is hosting engineers from the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP) from April 9 to 11, 2024, in Blantyre as part of its preparations for the operationalization of the Malawi-Mozambique (MOMA) Interconnector Project.
The workshop brings together key stakeholders to ensure ESCOM’s seamless integration into the regional power grid, marking a major step toward cross-border electricity trade and enhanced energy security.
In his opening remarks, ESCOM Director of System Market Operator, Charles Kagona, highlighted the significance of this engagement, emphasizing that the interconnection between ESCOM and Elecricidade de Moçambique (EDM) is more than just a project—it is a transformative initiative aimed at securing Malawi’s place in the Southern African electricity market.
“This initiative is a continuation of the journey we embarked on to ensure ESCOM’s integration into the regional electricity market. These activities are specifically designed to prepare us for the operational phase, ensuring a seamless transition,” he said.
Kagona said the three-day programme includes discussions on technical readiness, site visits to the interconnection point, and strategy sessions aimed at strengthening operational frameworks. Kagona underscored the importance of this structured approach, urging participants to engage fully in discussions that will shape the future of Malawi’s electricity sector.
Kagona provided an overview of ESCOM’s operational framework noting that the electricity sector has undergone significant restructuring since 2016.
“ESCOM now operates under four key licensees: the Single Buyer responsible for acquiring power, the Transmission licensee facilitating electricity transportation, the Distribution licensee ensuring power delivery to end users, and the System and Market Operator overseeing real-time grid and market operations. These roles, supported by essential departments such as finance, ICT, HR, and Legal, are vital in ensuring the success of the interconnection,” he said.
“With steady progress in construction, our focus now shifts to readiness. We want to ensure that when the time comes, ESCOM is fully prepared to integrate into the regional power market seamlessly,” he said.
Kagona extended gratitude to the SAPP Coordination Centre for its continuous support in facilitating this transition, acknowledging their role in guiding ESCOM towards full interconnection status.
The workshop marks a critical milestone for ESCOM, as Malawi remains the only country in the region not yet connected to the Southern African power grid. The MOMA Interconnector is expected to change this, allowing for increased power stability, efficiency, and economic benefits.