By The respondent reporter
The Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy, Dr. James Mataragio (pictured) emphasized the government's commitment to involving investors in renewable energy projects to diversify the country’s electricity sources. Speaking in Dodoma during a presentation to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Energy and Minerals, he highlighted the importance of renewable energy derived from geothermal, wind, and solar sources.
“We have identified areas where renewable energy is available. For geothermal energy, we are continuing to verify the resource, which involves drilling wells,” Dr. Mataragio stated, underscoring the potential of these clean energy sources to align with global carbon reduction goals.
Tanesco's Managing Director, Engineer Gissima Nyamo-Hanga, elaborated on the promise of geothermal resources, noting their renewability and sustainability for electricity generation and other applications. “Tanzania is estimated to have the potential to generate at least 5,000 megawatts of geothermal electricity from 52 sources located in 16 regions across the country,” he said.
Engineer Nyamo-Hanga detailed the progress of various geothermal projects, starting with the Ngozi project in Mbeya, which is currently verifying geothermal resources through drilling confirmation wells. Upon completion, this project aims to generate 70 megawatts, beginning with an initial output of 30 megawatts.
Another key initiative is the Kiejo-Mbaka project, situated in the Rungwe District, also in the Mbeya Region, which has reached the verification stage that includes drilling deep research wells. This project is set to generate 60 megawatts, starting with 10 megawatts. He also mentioned the Songwe project, which is in the drilling phase for four confirmation wells necessary for resource verification.
Regarding solar energy, Engineer Nyamo-Hanga indicated that research has identified numerous regions across the country suitable for solar power installations. Among these, Dodoma, Singida, Tabora, Arusha, Shinyanga, and Iringa stand out as viable locations. Currently, a significant solar power initiative is underway in Kishapu District, Shinyanga Region, which aims to produce 150 megawatts in two phases: the first phase will yield 50 megawatts, while the second will generate 100 megawatts.
Wind energy projects are also in the pipeline, currently undergoing feasibility studies. Once completed, these projects are expected to significantly enhance the amount of electricity generated from renewable sources, contributing to Tanzania's energy landscape and goals for sustainable development.