Tanzania has significant potential to develop its geothermal energy resources, providing reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity while supporting global clean energy goals, Energy Minister Deogratius Ndejembi has said.
Speaking at the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) Council during the Global Geothermal Alliance annual meeting in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Minister Ndejembi emphasized that geothermal development is integrated into Tanzania’s Vision 2050, the 2015 National Energy Policy, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the country’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) on climate change.
Through the Tanzania Geothermal Development Company (TGDC), the government is advancing key geothermal sites, including Ngozi (70 MW), Songwe (5–38 MW), Kiejo-Mbaka (60 MW), Natron (60 MW), and Luhoi (5 MW).
The goal is to commission the first geothermal power plant with a capacity of 130 MW by 2030, starting with 30 MW in the initial phase.
Minister Ndejembi invited investors to support geothermal projects, noting that the government continues to improve the investment climate, streamline licensing processes, and expand access to geothermal data.
He added that low-interest financing and collaboration with international partners and the private sector are essential to meet the high upfront costs of geothermal research and development.
He also welcomed international expertise to help train local professionals in geothermal energy. Tanzania’s Rift Valley alone has abundant geothermal resources capable of generating 5,000 MW of electricity, with 52 identified sites across 16 regions.
Opening the session, IRENA Deputy Director-General Gauri Singh highlighted geothermal energy’s global importance, while stressing that more investment is needed to fully unlock its potential.
Minister Ndejembi attended the meeting alongside Tanzania’s Acting Ambassador to the UAE, Bakari Ameir, Deputy Commissioner for Renewable Energy Eng. Imani Mruma, and other Ministry of Energy specialists.
Tanzania’s geothermal development is expected to contribute significantly to the country’s energy mix, economic growth, and transition to cleaner, sustainable power.