Analysis of the impact of aquatic weeds in the shire river on generation of electricity in Malawi: a case of Nkula falls hydro-electric power station in Mwanza district, southern Malawi

Abstract

A study was carried out to analyse the extent to which diverse species of aquatic weeds that have proliferated in the Shire River in Malawi in recent years affect the generation of electricity at Nkula Hydro-Electric Station in Mwanza District of the southern region of the country. Specifically, the study endeavoured to establish whether frequent power interruptions that Malawi is facing are the result of the problems caused by aquatic weeds in the Shire River which are believed to disturb proper functioning of the machines at the power station. Study results revealed that as much as the aquatic weeds impede power generation such as blocking the turbines, problems of low power generation that result into frequent and persistent load shedding are not entirely due to aquatic weeds. Problems of inefficient machines and shut down of machines are due to serving, which appeared to be the major cause.