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The Quest for Resilient Sustainable Development and Low-Carbon Energy Transitions: Investigating the Challenges and Success Factors for Mini-Grids in Malawi

Author

Listed:
  • Vincent Mwale

    (Energy Systems Department, Mzuzu University, Mzuzu Private Bag 201, Malawi)

  • Richard Blanchard

    (Centre for Renewable Energy Systems Technology, Wolfson School of Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering, Loughborough University, Leicestershire LE11 3TU, UK)

  • Tiyamike Ngonda

    (Department of Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Bellville 7535, South Africa)

  • Richard Nkhoma

    (Department of Engineering, Malawi University of Science and Technology, Limbe P.O. Box 5196, Malawi)

  • Chukwudi Ogunna

    (Centre for Sustainable Transitions: Energy Environment and Resilience (STEER), Geography and Environment, School of Social Sciences and Humanities, Loughborough University, Leicestershire LE11 3TU, UK)

  • Long Seng To

    (Centre for Sustainable Transitions: Energy Environment and Resilience (STEER), Geography and Environment, School of Social Sciences and Humanities, Loughborough University, Leicestershire LE11 3TU, UK)

Abstract

Renewable energy mini-grids are considered a cost-effective way to provide electricity for a large proportion of the population in developing countries who do not have access to it. Compared with standalone home systems and national grid systems, mini-grids can potentially offer a better service. They can be deployed faster, making them essential for sustainable development, especially in rural and semi-urban areas of developing countries. However, mini-grids often face challenges regarding their resilience, and many fail to survive beyond their pilot phases. This paper aims to identify the factors contributing to the success of mini-grids and to identify common themes that can help existing and future mini-grid developments become more resilient and influence policy decision making. To achieve this goal, we developed a database of the status of mini-grids in Malawi, with the energy generation resource(s) of their installed capacity, enabling factors, and challenges. We undertook a more detailed investigation of two hydro mini-grid systems—Bondo and Chipopoma. We collected qualitative and quantitative data through literature reviews, site visits, interviews, and observations. The study identified 19 mini-grids with a combined installed capacity of 26 MW. Of these, seven had been abandoned, and one was under development. Several factors that affect successful mini-grid efficacy in Malawi were identified, including financial resourcefulness, technical resourcefulness, policies and regulations, community engagement and capacity building, cross-sector linkages, and institutional organisational frameworks. These factors need to be integrated into decision making by all stakeholders to ensure the enhancement of resilience and the sustainable development of mini-grids.

Suggested Citation

  • Vincent Mwale & Richard Blanchard & Tiyamike Ngonda & Richard Nkhoma & Chukwudi Ogunna & Long Seng To, 2024. "The Quest for Resilient Sustainable Development and Low-Carbon Energy Transitions: Investigating the Challenges and Success Factors for Mini-Grids in Malawi," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(12), pages 1-19, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:12:p:5060-:d:1414607
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    References listed on IDEAS

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