Government’s Commitment to Solar Power Expansion
The government of Tanzania, through the Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO), has reaffirmed its commitment to investing in diverse sources of electricity, including solar power farms. This initiative aims to ensure a stable and reliable energy generation and supply across the country.
Implementation of solar farm projects has already commenced in collaboration with private investors in the Lake Zone regions, particularly within Bukombe and Ushetu District Councils. These projects are part of a broader strategy to enhance the nation’s energy infrastructure and meet growing demand.
Mr Augustino Kasale, the Acting Communications and Public Relations Officer at TANESCO, revealed this information during a briefing for journalists from Geita Region. The visit included a tour of the Bukombe Solar Power Farm project, highlighting the progress being made in renewable energy development.
Kasale emphasized that the government is prioritizing active investment in power generation. He mentioned that a major solar project is currently being implemented in Kishapu District, located in Shinyanga Region. This project is expected to initially generate 50 megawatts (MW) of electricity. “Later, the project will be expanded to generate up to 150 megawatts to ensure sufficient power supply, especially in areas with high electricity demand,” he stated.
Current Status of Solar Projects
Eng Givason Bugale, the Supervising Engineer of the Bukomme Solar Power Farm, provided further details about the project. He noted that the facility currently generates 6.5 megawatts and supplies five megawatts to the national grid.
He explained that the Bukombe Solar Power Plant is the second to be completed after the Ushetu project. A third plant is under construction at Ikina area in Geita District. “Our main resource is the sun. Maximum production occurs during daytime for an average of nine hours, from around 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.–when we reach peak electricity output,” he said.
However, Eng Bugale acknowledged that the project faces challenges during cloudy weather, which significantly reduces power generation. He also highlighted that prior to the commencement of operations at the Bukombe Solar Power Plant, a significant amount of electricity was being lost, as the district relied heavily on the Nyakanazi Substation for its power supply.
Expanding Capacity and Reducing Load
“The Bukombe and Ushetu solar power projects have the same capacity, but the new project under construction in Ikina, Geita District, will have a capacity of 10 megawatts,” Eng Bugale explained.
He added that the main goal of these projects is to increase electricity generation within the national grid system while also reducing the workload on substation machines, thereby extending their lifespan. This approach not only supports sustainable energy production but also enhances the efficiency and longevity of existing infrastructure.
Future Prospects
With the ongoing expansion of solar power initiatives, Tanzania is positioning itself as a leader in renewable energy within East Africa. The government’s focus on solar farms reflects a strategic move towards diversifying energy sources and ensuring long-term energy security.
As more projects come online, the impact on local communities and the national economy is expected to be significant. Increased access to reliable electricity can drive economic growth, improve quality of life, and support industrial development.
The continued investment in solar power is a testament to Tanzania’s commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable future. With each new project, the nation moves closer to achieving its energy goals and contributing to global efforts in combating climate change.