Radical collaboration for capacity building driving M300

The project developed an integrated master plan covering demand forecasting, generation, transmission, and distribution over a 20-year horizon. Here are the highlights:

• Multiple stakeholders were involved from the onset of procuring lead consultants to development and validation of the masterplan.
• Capacity building was a core focus, with six major training modules and a Training of Trainers program to ensure sustainable local expertise in tools like PLEXOS, DIgSILENT, and GIS.
• The involvement of the academia was key to initiating a discussion around integrating industry practice on IRPs to university curricula on power system planning for long-term sustainability of the knowledge and skills acquired.
• Four working groups facilitated active stakeholder engagement, knowledge transfer, and alignment of the IRP with national development goals.
• Local subcontractors played a key role by providing contextual insights, supporting data collection, and enhancing environmental and social impact matters.
• The updated IRP supports Malawi’s Mission 300 energy targets and economic growth sectors such as agriculture, tourism, mining, and manufacturing.
• Continuous monitoring, periodic updates every five years, and ongoing collaboration between stakeholders are essential for effective implementation.
• Recommendations include maintaining software access, increasing practical training time, refresher courses, and integrating capacity building into future IRP consultancy assignments.

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