Geothermal Power Tanzania Ltd. receives permit for exploration drilling at Ngozi

Near Ngozi, Tanzania (source: Geothermal Power Tanzania Ltd.)

Alexander Richter 14 Nov 2013

Geothermal Power Tanzania announced that it has received clearance from the National Environment Management Council (NEMC) last month for exploration drilling. The company will now proceed with geothermal development in Tanzania.

Still unexploited, Tanzania has an expected 650 megawatts geothermal potential ready to harvest. One of the largest reserves lies in the Ngozi-Songwe geothermal system. Holding several prospecting license in Mbeya region, GPT is ready to develop the geothermal reservoir in the Ngozi volcanic complex. Prior to drilling deep geothermal wells, an environmental study had to be undertaken to prove that all national regulations were satisfied regarding safety, reliability and quality. GPT has achieved this milestone, which allows the Company to advance to the deep drilling stage and advance the project towards realizing Tanzania’s first geothermal project, being an estimated 100 megawatts of power.

“As the first company to promote geothermal development in Tanzania, GPT is now putting theory into practice. Currently negotiations are underway with land owners and stakeholders for the defined drilling site”, said Graeme Robertson, Chairman of GPT.

By leveling the terrain and rehabilitating roads the site will be accessible for trucks that deliver the drilling rig within the next weeks. Drilling is due to begin later this year. Developing the local geothermal resources not only creates substantial power and electricity for the Tanzanian economy it will create beneficial employment for Tanzanian workers through the development, construction and operating phases of the project.

GPT has set an innovative landmark for the development of geothermal energy in Tanzania. Within Africa, only Kenya, Ethiopia, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo have installed geothermal plants, while research on these valuable resources are ongoing in 10 further countries. GPT based in Dar es Salaam, works in a public private partnership (PPP) with the National Development Corporation. This partnership will support additional generation of renewable energy to fulfill the needs of the Tanzanian people and industry.

GPT has been founded with the aim to explore and develop the geothermal resources of Tanzania commencing in the Mbeya area. The development team comprises leading experts in geothermal work. Currently, investments in geotechnical, geological and drilling work have already been made to develop the target areas.

Source: Geothermal Power Tanzania