Member states of the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP) have met in Zanzibar to strengthen regional efforts to promote efficient use of electricity, as countries across Southern Africa seek to balance rising demand with sustainable power generation.
The two-day meeting, which began on February 4, 2026, brought together delegates from SADC member states, including representatives of more than 16 electricity utilities involved in power generation and distribution.
The discussions focused on how available electricity can be used more efficiently and productively, allowing economies to grow while minimising waste and reducing the cost burden of power production.
Participants agreed that promoting efficient electricity use is critical at a time when countries are investing heavily in expanding generation capacity.
By encouraging consumers to use less power per unit while production continues to increase, countries can unlock more economic opportunities, strengthen cross-border electricity trade and improve energy security within the region.
Speaking to journalists, Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO) Research Manager, Engineer Samweli Kessy, said public awareness is a key pillar in achieving energy efficiency, noting that electricity generation remains costly despite utilities selling power to citizens at relatively affordable prices.
He said educating consumers on efficient usage would help conserve energy and create room for increased electricity exports, thereby boosting national revenues.
Engineer Kessy added that efficient power use also helps to lower production costs and supports environmental conservation by reducing pressure on generation systems.
He said Tanzania is fast-tracking implementation of the Ministry of Energy’s National Energy Efficiency Strategy for 2024–2034, which aims to ensure citizens across the country are well informed on how to use electricity wisely.
According to him, the strategy is expected to reduce household living costs while improving overall efficiency in electricity consumption.
As part of this effort, TANESCO will roll out a nationwide awareness campaign through radio, television, newspapers and direct community engagements to reach consumers and stakeholders at all levels.
He said the campaign will cover all categories of customers, from large industrial users to small domestic consumers, extending to regions, districts, wards and villages across the country.
The Zanzibar meeting is scheduled to conclude on February 5, 2026, with member states expected to agree on practical steps to deepen regional cooperation and accelerate the adoption of energy efficiency measures across the SAPP network.