Tanzania’s power grid expansion: New substations set to boost reliability across the nation

By Charles Mkoka

President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s recent visit to the Ifakara power substation in Morogoro marked a major advancement in Tanzania’s energy infrastructure.

 Deputy Minister of Energy, Hon. Judith Kapinga, revealed that President Hassan has approved the construction of 75 new power substations through TANESCO. This initiative is set to significantly enhance electricity reliability across the nation.

Before 2021, Tanzania had only 61 power receiving and cooling substations. "Thanks to President Hassan’s support, we are adding 75 more," Hon. Kapinga said.

The expansion project, which is estimated to cost Tshs. 4.42 trillion, will be implemented in phases.

 Currently, eight substations are already operational, and six more are 97% complete. This ambitious effort aims to provide consistent and reliable electricity to all Tanzanians.

The newly constructed Ifakara substation has had a transformative impact on the region. It has not only stabilized the electricity supply but also facilitated the connection of more than 54 new industries to the power grid.

Before the substation's completion, the area experienced frequent power outages—up to 18 times a month. Now, such outages have been reduced to only once a month.

In addition to improving national electricity access, President Hassan is also leading efforts to enhance regional connectivity. Projects like TAZA are designed to link Tanzania with neighboring East and Southern African countries, further integrating the region’s energy infrastructure. This regional connectivity is expected to drive economic growth and foster greater energy security.

Director-General of the Rural Energy Agency (REA), Mr. Hassan Saidy, emphasized the strategic importance of the new substations in addressing the growing electricity demands in districts such as Ifakara, Malinyi, and Ulanga. These areas are significant contributors to Tanzania’s agricultural and mining sectors. The expansion will not only meet the current electricity needs but also support future economic development in these vital regions.

Overall, the construction of these substations represents a significant step forward in Tanzania's quest to provide reliable, widespread electricity access and to strengthen regional energy ties.