Data for Energy Access: Scaling Solar Minigrids in Malawi

International Science Partnership Fund (Scottish Funding Council)

Access to reliable energy is critical for human development and the focus of SDG7. In Malawi, where over 13 million people lack access to the grid, solar photovoltaic minigrids present a cost-effective and low-carbon option for rural electrification. However, Malawi’s nascent minigrid sector has few active minigrid projects and lacks insight from reliable primary pilot data to inform technical designs and business models in order for the technology to scale. This project will partner with a leading minigrid provider in Malawi and longstanding partner of UoS to access and analyse key data on performance, demand, and revenue from the largest active minigrid in Malawi. Through in-depth data analysis, techno-economic modelling, and business plan development, the project will provide targeted recommendations to policy makers and the private sector for scaling minigrids, contributing to sustainable energy access in Malawi. The outcomes will extend research networks, benefit academia, and support minigrid private sectors internationally, while aligning with existing research programs such as the Global Renewable Centre and the UNDP African Minigrids Programme.