MZUNI TCRET
The Test and Training Centre for Renewable Energy Technologies
Empowering Renewable Energy Solutions: Advancing Research, Training, and Innovation
The Test and Training Centre for Renewable Energy Technologies (TCRET) is Mzuzu University’s hub for innovation in sustainable energy. As a Centre of Excellence, TCRET is dedicated to equipping individuals, organisations, and industries with the expertise needed to drive Malawi’s transition to clean energy. Through hands-on training, cutting-edge research, and strategic partnerships, the Centre fosters technological advancements that promote energy efficiency, sustainability, and economic growth.
TCRET serves as a knowledge powerhouse, connecting academia with government agencies, NGOs, and industry leaders to accelerate the adoption of renewable energy solutions. By bridging the gap between research and real-world application, the Centre ensures that sustainable energy technologies are not just studied—but actively implemented to transform communities.
Our Objectives
To provide certificate level training in renewable energy technologies for technicians, engineers, policy makers and planners in order to build sufficient human capacity to promote RETs and ensure informed decision-making in energy systems in Malawi and beyond
To promote collaborative research knowledge between staff of TCRET, local renewable energy industries and reputable regional and international institutions
To provide consultancy services to both the private and public sectors on RETs and energy systems
To provide testing services of renewable energy equipment to be marketed in Malawi by renewable energy technologies suppliers and industry.
Our Story: A Vision for Sustainable Energy
TCRET was founded in 2003 as part of a bold national initiative to eliminate barriers to renewable energy adoption in Malawi. The Barrier Removal to Renewable Energy in Malawi (BARREM) Project, implemented by the Department of Energy Affairs (DoE) and supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), recognised a major challenge: the country lacked a specialised institution dedicated to renewable energy education and research.
This gap led to:
- A shortage of skilled professionals capable of designing, installing, and maintaining renewable energy systems.
- The unchecked importation and installation of substandard solar and energy systems.
- Limited research and policy support to drive innovation in clean energy solutions.
To address these challenges, the Government of Malawi, through the DoE, established TCRET at Mzuzu University. With funding from UNDP, the Centre was equipped with state-of-the-art solar PV training and testing equipment, while engineers and technicians received world-class training to support its operations.
our Mision
To provide high quality training, testing and complementary services in energy systems through innovative continuance professional development programmes, research and consultancy in Malawi and beyond.
Our Vision
A reputable and functional Centre of Excellence in energy systems contributing to sustainable energy generation and utilisation in Malawi and beyond.
Projects, Objectives and Achievements
TCRET Achievement since Inception
- TCRET has trained more than 450 technicians and 200 engineers in Solar Photovoltaics and Wind Technology for lighting
- The centre has collaborated in offering tailor made short courses with institutions such as UNDP, MRA, SADC, ESAMI and Department of Energy Affairs etc
- The establishment of Department of Energy Systems (DES) in 2004 is an outcome of TCRET. The department now offers training at bachelor’s degree with plans for master’s degree at advanced level.
- So many research work has been done in collaborations with international institutions such as University of Strathclyde in Scotland and University of Loughborough in England etc.
- With support from British High Commission, TCRET installed 11 biogas digesters in Choma/Chigwere area, 10 biogas digesters in Mchinji district and implemented a solar PV project in Kapita area Inkosi Khonolo in Mzimba district.
- TCRET has worked as a consultant in design and specifications of institutional biogas systems for secondary and primary schools in a project that was implemented by CCODE. The centre has also worked on biogas projects with financial support from VSO, mini grids design. These projects have enabled TCRET consultants to gain significant experience in RE technologies.
- TCRET has worked as a consultant in feasibility assessments and mini grids design.