Tanzania sets eyes on 200+ MW geothermal development
Self-discharging well at Kiejo-Mbaka Geothermal Prospect, Mbeya, Tanzania (source: Chagaka Kalimbia)
Alexander Richter
21 Jan 2025
Tanzania underscores its large geothermal potential and ongoing projects at the recent IRENA assembly, urging private sector investment in development.
During the meeting of the Global Geothermal Alliance during the recent General Assembly meeting of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Dr. Hatibu Kazungu, Tanzania’s Energy deputy permanent secretary, outlined the geothermal potential of his country. The geothermal resources of the country are found in two branches of the East African Rift Valley, a known geothermal hot zone. Surveys conducted have identified around 50 promising sites across 16 regions in Tanzania.
Dr. Kazungu called for private sector investment and support from development partners, highlighting the ongoing efforts of the Tanzania Geothermal Development Company (TGDC), a subsidiary of TANESCO, in advancing five strategic projects:
- Ngozi (70 MW)
- Kiejo-Mbaka (60 MW)
- Songwe (38 MW)
- Luhoi (5 MW)
- Natron (60 MW)
These projects are at various stages of resource verification and detailed study, with the aim of harnessing geothermal energy to drive economic growth, protect the environment, and create jobs, as we have been reporting on before.
Experts have identified a large geothermal resource development potential for Tanzia, while though not as large as the potential of its neighbour Kenya.
Source: The Guardian
