In 2023, Tanzania's electricity consumption is primarily driven by fossil fuels, with fossil and gas energy totaling over 16 TWh. In contrast, low-carbon options like hydroelectric power contribute less significantly, with nearly 3 TWh coming from hydropower alone. The country's reliance on fossil energy indicates a substantial carbon footprint, where clean energy accounts for just a fraction of the total production. This scenario is concerning compared to the global average electricity consumption per person, which stands at about 3412 kWh, illustrating that Tanzania's electricity consumption of 167 kWh per person is quite low. Such low levels of electricity generation can hinder economic development, limit access to education and healthcare, and slow industrial growth, implying that increasing electricity supply is vital for the country's prosperity.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Tanzania?
Despite a low starting point, electricity generation in Tanzania has grown, with consumption per capita rising from 151 kWh in 2022 to 167 kWh in 2023. This noticeable increase of 16 kWh per person reflects an improving, albeit slowly, energy infrastructure. However, when examining low-carbon electricity generation specifically, the nation records a reduction from the previous high of 75 kWh per person in 2002 to 42 kWh in 2023. This decreasing trend in low-carbon energy is concerning, indicating a potentially increasing reliance on fossil fuels. Pivoting the growth towards sustainable or clean energy sources is critical to ensure environmental preservation while supporting the country's development goals.
Suggestions
To expand its low-carbon electricity generation, Tanzania can learn from other regions making strides in solar and nuclear power. For instance, China has been successfully expanding its solar energy production and generates a significant portion of its electricity, over 1000 TWh, through solar plants. Conversely, nuclear energy provides a stable and reliable electricity source, as seen in countries like France and the United States. Argentina, which is a developing country like Tanzania, also employs nuclear power. Emulating such strategies by investing in solar infrastructure and exploring options for nuclear development could significantly diversify and enhance Tanzania's electricity portfolio, leading to economic and environmental benefits.
History
Historically, Tanzania's low-carbon electricity, particularly from hydro sources, has shown fluctuations. During periods like the late 1980s and again in the early 1990s, hydroelectric generation experienced minor increases. While there were significant surges in 1998 and 2007, the overall trend has been erratic, unfortunately showing declines or stagnation in subsequent years. These developments reflect the pressing need for a more consistent and robust low-carbon energy strategy. Enhancing and diversifying the electricity mix with reliable energy sources such as nuclear and solar will be crucial for Tanzania's sustainable energy future. The path to a clean energy transition lies in adopting lessons from successful countries and making transformative investments in clean technology.
