Tanzania is poised to strengthen its position as a leader in geothermal energy development, with 30 megawatts of electricity expected to be added to the national grid by 2026/2027.
This initiative comes as the country identifies an immense geothermal potential, including 5,000 megawatts for electricity generation and 15,000 megawatts for direct-use applications.
Speaking on January 14, 2025, at the 15th Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in Abu Dhabi, Dr. Khatibu Kazungu, Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Energy, reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to advancing geothermal energy in sub-Saharan Africa.
During a high-level panel discussion, Dr. Kazungu highlighted Tanzania’s geothermal prospects, primarily driven by the two branches of the East African Rift Valley, a major source of geothermal energy in the region.
He revealed that the country has identified 50 potential sites across 16 regions, each at different stages of development for electricity generation and direct-use applications.
Encouraging investment in these projects, Dr. Kazungu welcomed private sector players and development partners to support Tanzania’s goal of achieving a sustainable, clean, and reliable energy mix.
To fast-track geothermal development, the government, through the Tanzania Geothermal Development Company (TGDC), a subsidiary of TANESCO, is prioritizing five strategic projects.
These include the Ngozi project (70 MW) and Kiejo-Mbaka project (60 MW) in Mbeya Region, the Songwe project (38 MW) in Songwe Region, the Luhoi project (5 MW) in Pwani Region, and the Natron project (60 MW) in Manyara Region, currently in an advanced research phase.
These projects are progressing through key stages, from resource verification to detailed feasibility studies.
Dr. Kazungu emphasized that once operational, these projects will significantly boost the national economy by creating jobs, conserving the environment, and increasing household incomes.
He also underlined the importance of enhancing infrastructure and fostering collaboration with private sector stakeholders and development partners to expedite the implementation of these environmentally friendly initiatives.