In a practical manner, Community Energy Malawi is operating an 80kw mini grid running on solar power at Sitolo, Mchinji, with a battery energy storage bank, able to power 2 heavy duty maize mills with three phase motors in ranging from 15kw to 20kw and also powering an oil pressing refinery which runs on a 12 kw motor. In addition, the electricity being generated is able to power three villages with a transmission and distribution network of a radius range up to 20km, and a total of about 728 customers connected. Not only are house holds connected but also SMEs running grocery shops, barbershops, wielding workshops, photocopy and printing services among others, improving the social economic status of the community. This has been achieved in partnership with UNDP Malawi, GEF, Scottish government, Ministry of Energy and Malawi Government.

One benefit of mini grids is that they can be tailored to meet the specific energy needs of the community they serve. For example, a mini grid serving a community of farmers may prioritize providing electricity for irrigation pumps, while a mini grid serving a tourist destination may prioritize providing electricity for hotels and restaurants.

Partnering with local organizations and businesses can help to make the development and operation of mini grids more sustainable and cost-effective. For example, a mini grid partnership might involve a renewable energy developer working with a local utility to build and operate a mini grid, or a renewable energy company partnering with a community-based organization to provide training and technical assistance to local residents.

Partnerships between local communities and external organizations can be an effective way to finance, build, and operate mini grids. For example, a community might partner with a nonprofit organization, a government agency, or a private company to develop a mini grid project. These partnerships can provide access to funding, technical expertise, and other resources that may be needed to successfully implement a mini grid.

In addition to providing reliable and affordable energy to communities, mini grid partnerships can also create local jobs and stimulate economic development. By involving local stakeholders in the planning and operation of the mini grid, these partnerships can help to build capacity and foster a sense of ownership and responsibility among community members.

Overall, mini grid partnerships can play a key role in the transition to a more decentralized and renewable energy system. By working with local organizations and businesses, these partnerships can help to bring reliable and affordable energy to underserved communities while also supporting economic development and local ownership