Golomoti, Malawi: Sub-Saharan Africa's first utility-scale solar PV and battery storage project

Stage: Round 7

JCM Power and RINA are pioneering Sub-Saharan Africa’s first utility-scale solar PV and battery energy storage system in Malawi’s 20MW Golomoti solar project. Launched in 2017, the initiative utilizes advanced lithium-ion battery technology to tackle Malawi’s energy challenges, with over 50% living below the poverty line and only 11.9% having electricity access. Successful implementation will boost Golomoti’s capacity to 28MW, contributing a 6% increase to Malawi’s total installed capacity. Addressing the ‘energy trilemma,’ the project aims to provide affordable and reliable energy, align with national goals, and establish a replicable model for the region. Seeking public funding to mitigate risks, it aims to ensure viability and attract private investment for Golomoti and Malawi’s power sector.