Mozambique-Malawi Power Interconnector Nears Commercial Operations

Mozambique and Malawi are nearing a major milestone in regional electricity cooperation as the high-voltage power transmission interconnector between the two countries enters its final testing phase. Commercial operations are expected to begin soon, strengthening energy security and regional power integration.

The project connects the electricity grids of Mozambique and Malawi through a 218-kilometer, 400-kilovolt transmission line. The line runs from the Matambo substation in Mozambique’s Tete Province to the Phombeya substation in Malawi’s Balaka District. Electricidade de Moçambique (EDM) has confirmed that the infrastructure has been energized and has undergone initial system stress testing to assess stability and reliability before commercial operations begin.

The interconnector is particularly important for Malawi, which has historically operated as an isolated electricity system. The country depends heavily on hydropower generated along the Shire River, making its electricity supply vulnerable to droughts and climate-related disruptions. The new connection will provide access to electricity from Mozambique and allow Malawi to join the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP).

Through SAPP, Malawi will gain access to regional electricity trading, enabling it to import power during periods of domestic shortages and reduce pressure on its electricity system. The country is expected to initially import around 50 MW of electricity from Mozambique. This capacity could increase to as much as 200 MW as electricity demand grows.

The project will also create opportunities for Malawi to export electricity in the future when additional domestic generation capacity becomes available. This will allow the country to participate more actively in regional power trading.

With an estimated investment of $88 million and support from international partners, including the World Bank, the project is expected to contribute to economic growth, improved electricity access and industrial development.

As final technical checks and commissioning activities continue, the interconnector is positioned to strengthen electricity security, deepen cooperation between Mozambique and Malawi, and support wider regional energy integration across Southern Africa.