Songwe Hydroelectric Power Station

Songwe Hydroelectric Power Station, also Songwe Power Station, is a proposed hydropower plant, with planned capacity installation of 180 MW when completed. Other related developments include the development of more dams for both power generation and irrigation purposes, and the creation of a Joint River Basin Authority.

Location
The power station would be located on the Songwe River, straddling the common border between Tanzania and Malawi. Its location is south of the town of Itumba, approximately 115 km, south of Mbeya, the headquarters of Mbeya District.

Overview
This power station is the first to be developed by the Joint Songwe River Basin Commission, co-owned by the Government of Tanzania and the Government of Malawi. The power station design calls for the creation of a reservoir, to be used for power generation and irrigation purposes in both countries.

As of May 2017, the feasibility studies and environmental and social impact assessment (ESIA) had been completed. The final design had been agreed upon. Commitment of funding from potential investors was being sought.

Construction
The African Development Bank (AfDB) funded the feasibility and design studies. The final design report was expected at the end of 2015. Other administrative and funding matters were expected to conclude in 2016. Construction was expected to start after that and conclude in 2022. Each country will be allocated 90 MW from this project.

The total cost of the project is quoted at US$829 million, to be shared equally by the two countries. The AfDB has expressed willingness to fund this project.