RE & REIAMA partner to boost decentralised renewable energy in Malawi
The Alliance for Rural Electrification (ARE) and the Renewable Energy Industries Association of Malawi (REIAMA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance their collaboration in advancing decentralised renewable energy (DRE) solutions across Malawi. This partnership is designed to address policy and regulatory challenges, strengthen capacity building, support private sector development, and advocate for policies that drive energy access, energy security, and climate action.
David Lecoque, CEO of ARE, highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, “This MoU marks a significant step forward in advancing DRE solutions in Malawi. By combining ARE’s international expertise and network with REIAMA’s local knowledge and reach, we aim to create a thriving DRE sector in Malawi, unlocking investments, creating jobs, and supporting the country’s energy access and climate goals.”
Under the MoU, ARE and REIAMA will jointly advocate for the creation of a conducive policy and regulatory environment to support DRE actors in Malawi. Through organising policy dialogues with renewable energy companies, rural electrification authorities, and other stakeholders, the partnership aims to address market challenges. The organisations also plan to develop joint publications, such as market briefs and research papers, and deliver institutional capacity-building events for policymakers and regulators. Efforts will also focus on advocating for sustainable guidelines and recycling frameworks for renewable energy technologies, alongside identifying and supporting regional and international advocacy opportunities.
The agreement also prioritises capacity building to empower DRE stakeholders in Malawi. Through in-person and virtual training programmes, such as DRE Energy Investment Academies, the partnership aims to provide critical fundraising support for early-stage DRE companies. The collaboration’s objective is to foster the exchange of best practices, including organising study tours and technical training sessions for DRE developers, focused on safety, efficiency, and sustainability.
To strengthen private sector development, ARE and REIAMA aim to co-organise workshops, webinars, and networking events that connect Malawian and international stakeholders. Joint exhibitions and side events at national and regional industry conferences will further support the private sector by linking developers, technology providers, financiers, and project developers, fostering collaboration and innovation in renewable energy projects.
Brave Mhonie, President of REIAMA said: ”On behalf of the REIAMA members and all Malawians, we are excited to have reached a working agreement with ARE to collaborate in combating energy poverty by promoting innovative DRE solutions in Malawi, while creating sustainable opportunities for our members. The Board of REIAMA is fully committed to working with ARE in harmonising resources, skills and expertise for the benefit of the members of both associations and energy consumers in rural communities. The time to take action is now, and we can only combat energy poverty by working together.”
