- Tanzania’s energy future reflects rapid growth, digital innovation, and a strong commitment to sustainable power development.
- The country’s investment in access, efficiency, and infrastructure shows how Tanzania’s energy future supports national progress and global sustainability goals.
Tanzania is entering a new energy era with the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project (JNHPP) commissioning in early 2025. This project marks a significant milestone in the nation’s pursuit of reliable and independent energy generation.
The 2,115MW JNHPP is among the most significant hydropower projects in sub-Saharan Africa. It is located on the Rufiji River within the Selous Game Reserve. When all nine turbines, each producing 235 megawatts, begin operation, Tanzania’s total generation capacity will rise above 4,000MW. This increase will improve grid stability and provide affordable electricity to households, industries, and businesses nationwide.
Before JNHPP, Tanzania’s total installed capacity stood at around 2,411MW, according to the Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA). Of this amount, 2,372MW came from the national grid and 38MW from off-grid systems. The new project will help the country reduce dependence on costly diesel generation, which is both carbon-intensive and unsustainable. It will also stabilise voltage, lower power cuts, and advance Tanzania’s goal of achieving universal access to electricity.
Even so, off-grid systems such as microgrids remain vital. They extend power access to rural and remote communities while strengthening local resilience and economic growth.
Digital innovation is now transforming Tanzania’s transmission and distribution systems. The national grid spans 7,524 kilometres of transmission lines and 67 substations, and distribution networks stretch over 188,000 kilometres. Modern tools like the Advanced Distribution Management System (ADMS) allow TANESCO to enhance efficiency through real-time monitoring and automated fault management. Combining SCADA, DMS, and OMS into one platform, ADMS enables more innovative grid management and prepares the system for distributed energy resources (DERs).
At the same time, Tanzania is advancing its sustainability and net-zero targets. Schneider Electric’s AirSeT SF6-free medium-voltage switchgear and grid automation technologies are helping create cleaner and more reliable power systems. When integrated with microgrids, these solutions improve resilience for industries, data centres, and essential services, ensuring steady electricity even during disruptions.
Beyond infrastructure, Tanzania’s progress also focuses on people. Schneider Electric’s Access to Energy programmes offer practical solar-powered solutions such as Mobiya lamps, Homaya home systems, and Villaya microgrids. These initiatives empower communities and promote inclusive growth.
In conclusion, Tanzania’s energy future is based on innovation, sustainability, and human development. With expanding capacity, digital transformation, and people-focused initiatives, Tanzania is steadily building a secure and sustainable energy system for future generations.