Dar es Salaam. In a significant stride towards energy innovation, Tanzania is set to integrate 30 megawatts of geothermal energy into its national grid by 2026/2027.
This announcement was made by Dr Khatibu Kazungu, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy, during the Global Alliance meeting at the 15th International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) Assembly on January 14, 2025, in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
Tanzania boasts vast geothermal resources, with a potential 5,000 megawatts of electricity and 15,000 megawatts available for direct use.
Dr Kazungu emphasized that Tanzania aims to be a leader in geothermal energy development in Southern Africa.
Highlighting the country’s geothermal opportunities, he noted that Tanzania is strategically located near the East African Rift Valley, a significant energy source for the region.
“We have identified 50 areas across 16 regions that show signs of geothermal resources, currently at various stages of development for electricity production and direct use,” said Dr Kazungu.
The government is actively inviting development partners and private institutions to invest in Tanzania to enhance access to clean, reliable, and sustainable energy.
Additionally, the Tanzania Geothermal Development Company (TGDC), a subsidiary of TANESCO, is prioritizing five strategic projects to accelerate energy access.
These include the Ngozi Project (70 MW), the Kiejo Project (60 MW) in Mbeya, the Songwe Project (38 MW), the Luhoi Project (5 MW) in Pwani, and the Natron Project (60 MW) in Manyara, which is currently undergoing detailed research.
Once operational, these geothermal projects are expected to boost the economy, promote environmental conservation, and create job opportunities for Tanzanians.
Dr Kazungu emphasized the importance of infrastructure and private sector involvement in executing these environmentally friendly projects.
As Tanzania forges ahead in its geothermal journey, the nation is poised to not only enhance its energy security but also contribute to sustainable development in the region.
The commitment to harnessing geothermal energy reflects Tanzania’s vision of a greener, more prosperous future.
