Tanzania to spend Sh1.48tr on geothermal power by 2030

Speaking to The Citizen at the 49th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (DITF) on Sunday, July 6, TGDC Director of Business Development, Mr Shakiru Kajugus, said the Ngozi Crater project is expected to generate 70 megawatts (MW) of electricity, while Kiejo-Mbaka will produce 60 MW.

“Together, these two projects will add 130 MW to the national grid by 2030, bolstering the country’s transition to reliable and renewable energy,” he said.

Mr Kajugus noted that although Tanzania has the potential to generate more than 5,000 MW from geothermal sources, the 130 MW target is the first step towards long-term development of this clean energy.

The electricity produced will also contribute to continental efforts to connect over 300 million Africans still lacking access to electricity.

The Ngozi project, which began in 2015, is now entering a critical phase, with the drilling of three geothermal wells set to commence this month, each reaching 1,500 metres deep to access underground temperatures of up to 250°C.

“We expect the drilling to take about six months. Preparations are complete, and we encourage citizens to visit our booth at the trade fair to learn more,” he said.

Besides the two main projects, TGDC has identified over 50 geothermal sites in 16 regions with power-generation potential. Areas earmarked for future development include Songwe, Lohoi in the Coast Region, and Lake Natron in Arusha. Mr Kajugus explained that geothermal energy offers more than electricity. The same technology can be applied in agriculture, greenhouses, poultry hatcheries, tourism, recreational facilities, swimming pools, and wellness services such as skin therapy.

“Geothermal use across various sectors will help boost government revenue, create jobs and improve livelihoods,” he said.

TGDC is working closely with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), which supports the projects through technical expertise and capacity building.

Currently, two Tanzanian engineers are pursuing master’s degrees in geothermal studies in Japan under the partnership. Geothermal development in Tanzania dates to the 1970s when initial studies were conducted along the East African Rift Valley.

Between 1976 and 1979, the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) facilitated early surveys with experts from Sweden and Iceland. These studies identified dozens of geothermal springs stretching from northern Tanzania to Mbeya, with suitable heat levels for power generation.

As electricity demand grows, Tanzania is shifting its focus to renewable sources to reduce reliance on hydropower and fossil fuels.

TGDC believes geothermal success will improve energy security, support industries, and align with national sustainable development goals.