Geothermal

Tanzania is gearing up for a significant boost in geothermal energy production, with 30 megawatts expected to be added to the national grid by the end of the 2026/2027 financial year. Dr. Hatibu Kazungu, Deputy Permanent Secretary for Energy, highlighted this during the Global Geothermal Alliance meeting at the 15th assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

The country’s geothermal potential is bolstered by the East African Rift Valley, which traverses its landscape in two branches. Dr. Kazungu revealed that surveys have identified 50 resource-rich geothermal sites spread across 16 regions, with development progressing at various stages. He emphasized the need for private sector involvement and development partner support to harness this clean, sustainable energy source.

Key geothermal projects under the Tanzania Geothermal Development Co. (TGDC), a TANESCO subsidiary, include Ngozi (70 MW), Kiejo-Mbaka (60 MW), Songwe (38 MW), Luhoi (5 MW), and Natron (60 MW). Resource verification and detailed studies are underway for these projects, which are expected to significantly impact the economy by creating jobs, reducing environmental degradation, and diversifying energy sources.

Experts describe geothermal energy as a renewable resource derived from the earth's core, powered by tectonic activity and radioactive decay. While neighboring countries like Kenya have made strides in geothermal development, with companies like KenGen expanding operations regionally, Tanzania’s potential remains vast, estimated at up to 5,000 MW. This positions the country to emerge as a major player in geothermal energy in the region.