The Minister of Energy Newton Kambala has expressed displeasure with the current electricity tariffs, stating that the ministry work on diversifying the country’s energy sources to increase electricity penetration, which will be achievable by lowering the tariffs.

Electricity penetration currently stands at 11.5% amidst a population of 18.6 million. According to Kambala, the penetration will increase when/if the tariffs are lowered. “As you know, the cost of doing business in the country is high because of the high cost and insufficient electricity.” said Kambala.

The minister also pointed out that diversifying energy sources to nuclear, coal-fired plants and increased use of liquid petroleum gas [LPG], will increase the penetration. Meanwhile, Malawi relies mostly on hydro-powered plants that are dependent on rainy seasons, as stakeholders have called for a change of mindset; last year, during the sidelines of a day-long tour of Tedzani Hydropower Station in Neno, Zambia-based Engineer Kaela Kennedy Siame advised Malawi to look beyond hydropower and explore other energy sources. On the other hand, the Consumer Association of Malawi (Cama) Executive Director John Kapito criticized hydro-power, citing that low water levels and silt are problems that cause insufficient supply of electricity, hence the need to diversify.