Malawi is currently diversifying its energy generation mix to address the power challenges that the country has been facing due to overreliance on hydropower. Opening up of the country’s power sector has attracted the participation of Independent Power Producers (IPPs) in power generation.
 
Recently, Quantel Renewable Energy- an Independent Power Producer, has launched a $65 million solar project at Bwengu in Mzimba District which is expected to generate at least 50MW of photovoltaic energy.

Chief Executive Officer of Quantel Renewable Energy, Patridge Shycal, said once completed the solar plant will help to improve access to affordable, reliable and sustainable energy.
"The initial generation capacity is 50MW of photovoltaic energy but this may go up to 65MW per year translating into a significant supply of clean and sustainable energy to homes and businesses in Malawi. The power generated from the solar plant will be fed directly into the national grid via a direct connection point at Bwengu Sub-Station "

"We are commencing pre-construction works, which is expected to be completed within nine to 12 months all things being equal."
The project, which is in permitting stage, will be developed in single-phase and full construction will begin later in the year. It is expected to enter into commercial operation in 2024.

Quantel Renewable Energy is in partnership with Vidullanka plc of Sri Lanka and Frontier Energy of Denmark. They signed a Power Purchase Agreement with the Malawi government in May 2019, which was renewed in May 2021.  

The company registered with Malawi Investment and Trade Centre in October, 2018.