Tanzania to activate second turbine at Julius Nyerere Hydropower Plant by end of April
What you need to know:
- Dry tests have been successfully completed, and wet tests, encompassing the rotation of machinery, are currently in progress, after which electrical tests will be conducted, paving the way for the activation of the plant's second unit.
Dar es Salaam. The government is set to activate the second turbine at the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Plant (JNHPP) by the end of April, despite grappling with challenges posed by overflowing water levels.
The Tanzania Electric Supply Company (Tanesco) director for the eastern region, Mr Kenneth Boymanda, told The Citizen on Saturday, April 6, 2024, that trials are currently ongoing, after which the second plant, denoted as plant number eight, will be activated.
“We have completed the dry tests, and wet tests, which involve the rotation of the machinery, are currently in progress. Electrical tests will follow, paving the way for the activation of the plant’s second unit,” he said.
Mr Boymanda noted that in some instances, they were forced to stop the trials due to an influx of overflowing water in the plant.
El Nino rains that continue to pound most parts of the country are reportedly filling up the dam at a quick speed.
The government is pushing forward with the project, which will generate 2,115 megawatts upon completion.
Last month, the plant began contributing 235 megawatts to the national grid, significantly reducing power rationing. It is expected to completely end rationing when the second turbine comes online soon.
Mr Boymanda said the second turbine will generate another 235 megawatts.
The government has maintained its commitment to the project, highlighting its potential to bring much-needed electricity to the nation.
Recently, the deputy Prime Minister, who is also the Minister for Energy, Mr Doto Biteko, emphasised the government’s dedication to ensuring all future hydroelectric projects adhere to water sustainability principles.
He also outlined plans for further diversifying the country’s energy sources through investments in gas, solar, wind, and geothermal power.
With nine turbines, the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Plant is poised to transform Tanzania’s energy landscape, potentially leading to a surplus of electricity and paving the way for further economic growth.
