Malawi is set to experience a major energy revolution as the World Bank approves a $350 million grant to jumpstart the ambitious Mpatamanga Hydropower Storage Project an initiative poised to double the nation’s hydropower generation and light up over a million new households.

The transformative project, valued at more than $1.5 billion, is being hailed as the largest foreign direct investment in Malawi’s history. More than just increasing electricity access, the project is expected to create thousands of jobs and supercharge industrial and economic growth across the region.

At the heart of this public-private partnership is a consortium led by Electricité de France (EDF) and SN Malawi BV backed by British International Investment, Norfund, and TotalEnergies who were selected in 2022 to spearhead the development.

The Mpatamanga project, to be constructed along the Shire River between two existing hydropower stations, will add 358 megawatts to Malawi’s grid effectively doubling its current hydropower output. With energy demand soaring and frequent blackouts throttling productivity, this project represents a powerful step toward energy security and sustainability.

According to the World Bank, the project aligns with regional goals to expand clean energy infrastructure while supporting climate resilience and long-term development. For Malawi, the promise is clear: brighter homes, stronger industries, and a future powered by clean, reliable energy.