Tanzania has significant geothermal energy potential due to its location within the East African Rift Valley, where tectonic activity creates favorable conditions for geothermal energy production. The country has been exploring geothermal resources as part of its strategy to diversify energy sources and promote sustainable, renewable energy.
Key points about geothermal energy in Tanzania:
Potential Geothermal Sites: Tanzania has over 50 identified potential geothermal sites, with the most promising located in the northern and southwestern regions. Areas like the Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Natron, and Lake Manyara, all within the Rift Valley, have shown great potential.
Exploration Efforts: Geothermal exploration in Tanzania has been ongoing since the 1970s, but development has been relatively slow due to financial and technical challenges. In recent years, the Tanzanian government has renewed its focus on geothermal energy, with support from international organizations like the African Development Bank, the World Bank, and the African Rift Geothermal Development Facility (ARGeo).
Energy Potential: Tanzania’s geothermal resource potential is estimated to be over 5,000 MW. This could significantly contribute to the country’s energy mix and reduce reliance on hydropower, which is vulnerable to droughts, and fossil fuels, which are imported.
Government Involvement: The Tanzanian government, through the Tanzania Geothermal Development Company (TGDC), has been actively working to explore and develop geothermal energy. The TGDC was established in 2013 to spearhead geothermal development, focusing on exploration, drilling, and eventual power production.
Ongoing Projects: Some of the active geothermal projects include the Ngozi geothermal project in the Mbeya region, which is considered one of the most advanced. The Ngozi site is expected to generate around 100 MW in its initial phase, with potential for further expansion. Other projects include sites near Lake Natron and Lake Manyara.
Challenges: Despite the immense potential, geothermal development in Tanzania faces hurdles such as high upfront costs, lack of infrastructure, and limited technical expertise. Securing funding for drilling and exploration activities is a major challenge.
With ongoing exploration and development, Tanzania could significantly boost its renewable energy capacity, contributing to energy security and reducing its reliance on non-renewable sources.
