Chinese firm for speed on Kammwamba project
Energy China Engineering Group, a company sub-contracted to work on the Kammwamba Coal–Fired Power Plant in Neno says it will work with speed to ensure that the project is completed soon.
Chief chairman for Energy China Engineering Group Wang Jiangping said this in Beijing, China when President Peter Mutharika toured the company’s head office to appreciate the strides that the company has made in preparation for the 300 megawatt Kammwamba project.
Wang said although the project has delayed, once funds are released, the company will expedite the construction process.
“We are concerned with the delays in the funding process but we are optimistic that things will run smooth soon since the funders, Exim.Bank of China has assured us that the funds will be available soon,” said Wang.
Speaking during the meeting, President Mutharika also expressed optimism that once the funds are released, Energy China Engineering Group will speed up construction works so that Malawi’s energy challenges are minimised.
“The power outages that we have can be greatly reduced, if the coal-powered plant becomes operational,” said Mutharika.
Funds for the construction of Kammwamba coal powered were approved by Exim Bank in 2015, but funds for the project are yet to be released.
Energy China Engineering Group is a Chinese government owned company, which specialises in solar, hydro, wind and nuclear power.
The project, with a 30-year lifespan, is expected to be implemented under the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) model, which is a particular form of contracting arrangement used in big projects where the contractor is responsible for all the activities, from designing, procurement construction to commissioning and handover of the project.
According to energy consultant, who is also former energy and natural resources minister Grain Malunga in an earlier interview, completion of the project is critical as it will improve electricity supply in the country.
“It will boost the energy sector. We have enormous coal deposits which we should have tapped long time ago. It is pleasing that the project is taking shape,” said Malunga.
Malawi Confederation Chambers of Commerce and Industry (MCCCI) chief executive officer Chancellor Kaferapanjira said the private sector is keen to see long-term solutions to the electricity problems Malawi is facing.
