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T1 Energy Profile: Malawi
A1 United Nations Environment Programme, 
K1 energy resource
K1 biomass energy
K1 hydroelectric power
K1 natural gas
K1 peat
K1 coal
K1 wind power
K1 nuclear energy
K1 solar energy
K1 sustainable energy
K1 Malawi
YR 2017
FD 2017
LK https://wedocs.unep.org/handle/20.500.11822/20501
UL https://wedocs.unep.org/handle/20.500.11822/20501
NO This energy profile report presents an overview of Malawi’s energy sector, highlighting critical data and trends in production, consumption, and access. As of 2015, Malawi produced 252 ktoe of electricity, with 98.4% derived from hydropower and minimal input from fossil fuels or renewables like solar and wind. Biomass remains the dominant energy source, accounting for approximately 88.5% of national energy needs, largely used for cooking. Access to electricity is among the lowest globally, with only 9.8% of the population connected in 2012—2% in rural areas and 37.1% in urban areas. The report underscores significant reliance on imported refined oil products and the environmental impacts of biomass use, particularly deforestation. It outlines key government initiatives aimed at improving energy access, efficiency, and sustainability, including rural electrification, solar PV rollout, and promotion of energy-saving cookstoves. Malawi's institutional and regulatory landscape, underpinned by the 2003 Energy Policy, also plays a central role in driving ongoing reforms.
DS UN Environment Document Repository
RD Sep 18, 2026