TED conference: Alex Salmond announces Scotland and Malawi renewable energy partnership

ALEX SALMOND today announced that Scotland is to help Malawi build a renewable energy policy by developing sustainable electricity in the African country.

• 93 per cent of the Malawi population do not have electricity and the initiative aims to create green electricity

The First Minister made the announcement after speaking at the TEDGlobal 2012 conference in Edinburgh, which brings together thinkers from the worlds of technology, entertainment and design.

Mr Salmond said: “Much of the region of Chikhwawa in Malawi did not have electricity until a programme led by Strathclyde University, funded by Scottish Government, installed a solar energy system. Now school buildings have lighting and power sockets allowing studying in the evening and its health post now has refrigeration allowing vaccines to be stored more effectively.

“We will work with the Government of Malawi to help extend electricity provision from test areas such as Chikhwawa. Experts in climate change and renewable energy from the Scottish Government will work with Malawian officials to help develop their energy and climate change policy – helping increase quality of life in a sustainable way.”

He added: “Providing this support is an important step forward in our relationship with Malawi. It demonstrates that partnership with countries like Malawi is more than just about financial aid but also about building capacity and sharing our learning and expertise with those that need it the most.”