Mozambique-Malawi Power Interconnection Nears Commercial Operation, Boosting Regional Electricity Trade
The Mozambique-Malawi power transmission line is expected to enter commercial operation later this month, marking a major step towards strengthening electricity supply and regional power integration.
The transmission line has already been energised and is undergoing technical testing. Testing began about two weeks ago and is expected to continue for another week, although the process could be extended if any technical issues are identified.
Joaquim Henriques Ou-Chim, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Electricidade de Moçambique (EDM), said the infrastructure is currently being tested to confirm that it is operating safely and reliably before commercial operations begin.
The project connects Mozambique’s Matambo substation in Tete Province with Malawi’s Phombeya substation in Balaka District through a 400-kilovolt transmission line.
Malawi initially plans to import about 50 MW of electricity from Mozambique.
The interconnection is expected to improve Malawi’s electricity security by providing access to additional generation capacity from Mozambique while strengthening the two countries’ integration into the wider Southern African power market.
For Mozambique, the project creates an additional avenue for electricity exports and supports the broader development of regional power trading.
The completion of the interconnection is therefore significant for both countries as they seek to improve grid reliability, expand electricity access and make more efficient use of available generation resources.
Once commercial operations begin, the Mozambique-Malawi link is expected to become an important component of regional electricity infrastructure and contribute to deeper power-market integration across Southern Africa.