Tanzania Accelerates Large-Scale Wind And Solar Energy Procurement To Strengthen Power Grid

Tanzania is taking major steps to expand its renewable energy sector by increasing the procurement of large-scale wind and solar power projects. The government source has revealed that the country is now focusing on attracting private investment into its electricity sector as part of a broader strategy to modernize the national power network and improve energy security.

For many years, Tanzania has depended heavily on hydropower and natural gas for electricity generation. However, recurring drought conditions linked to climate change have repeatedly affected hydropower production, leading to electricity shortages and concerns about grid stability. These challenges have pushed the government to diversify its energy mix and reduce dependence on conventional sources.

To support this transition, the state-owned utility company TANESCO is opening opportunities for independent power producers to develop large renewable energy projects. Tanzania has significant renewable energy potential, especially for solar and wind power. Central parts of the country receive strong solar radiation throughout the year, while regions such as Makambako and Kititimo are known for favorable wind conditions suitable for utility-scale wind farms.

One of the key projects under this renewable energy push is the Kishapu solar project located in the Shinyanga region. The project has received financial support from the French Development Agency. The first phase of the project, with a capacity of 50 MW, has already started supplying electricity to the national grid and has become the country’s largest operational grid-connected solar power plant. Authorities are now moving ahead with the next phase of the project, which is expected to add another 100 MW of solar generation capacity.

In addition to the Kishapu project, Tanzania is also working with international renewable energy developers on long-term partnerships aimed at developing multi-gigawatt wind and solar projects across the country. These projects are expected to play a major role in increasing electricity generation while reducing the use of costly fossil fuel-based power.

The government is also focusing on strengthening regional transmission infrastructure to support the growth of renewable energy. Tanzania plans to expand high-voltage transmission lines connecting its grid with neighboring countries through regional power pool networks in East and Southern Africa. These interconnections are expected to improve electricity trading, enhance grid reliability, and help manage the variable nature of renewable energy generation.

Through large-scale renewable procurement and improved regional connectivity, Tanzania aims to build a more resilient and sustainable power sector while expanding electricity access across the country.