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. 2024 Jul;54(3):258-261.
doi: 10.1177/00494755241241565. Epub 2024 Apr 1.

Implementation of a 3-phase grid-coupled solar electricity and back-up system at Mulanje Mission Hospital, Malawi

Arie C Glas  1 , Michael J Cocquyt  2 , Cathy Ratcliff  3
Affiliations

Implementation of a 3-phase grid-coupled solar electricity and back-up system at Mulanje Mission Hospital, Malawi

Arie C Glas et al. Trop Doct. 2024 Jul.

Abstract

In this report we describe the implementation of a new electricity supply system at Mulanje Mission Hospital, Malawi, which integrates the use of grid electricity, solar-generated electricity and battery back-up. To realize the system, suppliers from several countries had to be used and external expertise and funding were vital. The completed system provides reliable and good quality electricity to all departments in the hospital, prioritizing essential equipment when needed. Implementation of the system has reduced cost of electricity bills by 60%, ended black-outs and extended longevity of electrical equipment. We describe our approach, the materials used and results with challenges and recommendations to governments, donors interested in hospital infrastructure and other health facilities operating in similar circumstances. Others in similar settings can benefit from the experiences documented.

Keywords: Infrastructure; Malawi; electricity; quality of care; solar.

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Conflict of interest statement

Declaration of conflicting interestsThe author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

References

    1. Government of Malawi. Malawi 2023 tropical cyclone freddy post-disaster needs assessment. Lilongwe: Government of Malawi, 2023, p.39.
    1. Reuland F, Behnke N, Cronk R, et al. Energy access in Malawian healthcare facilities: consequences for health service delivery and environmental health conditions. Health Policy Plan 2020; 35: 142–152. - PubMed
    1. Khoza AE. Memorial history of Mulanje mission. Blantyre: E+V Publications, 2002, p.47.

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