A solar power project to connect villages in Malawi has had a “life-changing” impact for rural communities. The initiative, led by Strathclyde University researchers, has seen affordable energy supply businesses set up in four villages.

The partnership, which has been backed by a £600,000 grant from the Scottish government, ensures locals own and operate the equipment.

It includes battery chargers and power connections for other small businesses.

Only 12% of Malawi’s 18 million population is connected to the main electricity grid, which dips to 2% in rural areas.

For the vast majority the main energy source is open fires, which puts pressure on the country’s forests.

Barber Hedison Charles, who had to drop out of school due to financial problems, said the project has had a huge impact.

He said: “This programme has changed my life. Before I had no money and now I have money because of my business.

“Before people were travelling almost 30km to have their hair cut, now people are getting their hair cut here. The solar system is helping me a lot.”