MW POWER V

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The objective of the project is to assist the government to implement the priority components of the least cost power development program. The subsidiary objectives are to improve the quality of power supply and to strengthen energy sector institutions to plan and manage energy sector activities at sectoral and sub-sectoral levels. The power component comprises: (a) increasing the hydro generation capacity by 50MW through the construction of the first phase of a hydroelectric power plant at Kapichira Falls, including related transmission system expansion, and engineering services for design and supervision; (b) rehabilitation of the existing hydro, standby gas turbine and diesel power plants to improve their availability; (c) reinforcing and expanding the transmission and distribution systems, to improve reliability, reduce losses and connect new consumers; (d) strengthening the Electricity Supply Commission of Malawi through the provision of computer hardware and software, studies and training. The non-power component will: (a) assist in energy planning and policy formulation through provision of technical assistance; (b) support the Petroleum Control Commission in least cost petroleum product sourcing through technical assistance; and (c) provide technical assistance to the Tobacco Control Commission in improving barn design for smallholder tobacco curing, to reduce woodfuel consumption.