Energy situation, potential and application status of small-scale hydropower systems in Malawi

The analysis of the small-scale hydropower potential sites indicates that the country has considerable potential for decentralised hydropower generation, which if fully exploited, can contribute to the country's electricity and power supply especially for rural electrification. Most of the identified potential sites are located in the northern parts of the country. From the information on the assessed sites, a proven potential of 7.6 MW can be harnessed. An inventory of small-scale hydropower systems shows there is an installed capacity of 5.8 MW with most of the plants not functioning due to various reasons. Challenges and opportunities towards popularisation of the technology have been identified and discussed.