How can Malawi expand access to electricity while preparing its transport sector for a lower-carbon future? The country is taking a step towards addressing both challenges through new regulatory frameworks for electric mobility and net metering, aimed at encouraging investment, supporting renewable energy adoption and strengthening its energy system.
The Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA), working with the Ministry of Energy, is scheduled to launch the Electric Mobility Regulatory Framework and Net-Metering Rules on 4 November 2026. The announcement, made ahead of the launch, signals a move towards establishing clearer guidelines for two areas expected to play an increasingly important role in the country’s energy transition.
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The electric mobility framework is intended to provide regulatory direction for the development of the country’s electric vehicle sector. Clear rules can help create a more predictable environment for investors, businesses and consumers, while supporting the development of charging infrastructure and related services.
For Malawi, the opportunity extends beyond introducing electric vehicles. A growing electric mobility market could encourage new businesses, support technical skills development and create investment opportunities in vehicle maintenance, charging systems and renewable-powered transport infrastructure.
The second component, the net-metering rules, is designed to support consumers and businesses that generate electricity, particularly through solar installations. Net metering allows eligible users to feed surplus electricity into the grid, subject to the applicable regulatory and technical arrangements.
This is significant for a country where access to reliable electricity remains a major development challenge. World Bank data put Malawi’s electricity access rate at 25.9 per cent in 2024, comprising 11.3 per cent through grid connections and 14.6 per cent through off-grid solutions.
The country has also begun testing net-metering arrangements. The pilot programme has involved 34 participants with a combined installed capacity of approximately 3.9 megawatts, while the Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi has been involved in its implementation.
The new rules could provide a clearer basis for expanding such arrangements, encouraging households and businesses to invest in distributed renewable energy while contributing surplus power to the national electricity system.
Nevertheless, successful implementation will require more than regulatory approval. Malawi will need adequate grid infrastructure, transparent connection procedures, effective consumer protections and financing options that make electric mobility and solar installations accessible beyond a limited group of early adopters.
The planned launch represents an important policy development, but its real value will be measured by implementation and uptake. If supported by investment and consistent regulation, the frameworks could help Malawi broaden its energy options, encourage private-sector participation and advance a more sustainable approach to electricity and transport.
