In Tanzania, the current state of electricity consumption highlights a heavy reliance on fossil fuels, with more than half of the electricity generated from gas and other fossil fuels, accounting for roughly 16.3 TWh. In stark contrast, low-carbon electricity sources contribute less than a fifth of the electricity mix, with hydropower being the primary contributor at about 2.7 TWh, showing that clean electricity is still markedly underdeveloped. This scenario is alarming when compared to the global average electricity consumption of 3,794 kWh per person, as Tanzania’s consumption stands at only 167 kWh per person. This low level of electricity generation can contribute to several adverse effects, such as limited industrial growth, hindered technological advancements, and reduced quality of life for the country's population.

Is Electricity Growing in Tanzania?

Encouragingly, electricity consumption in Tanzania is showing signs of improvement. The latest figures for 2023 indicate a growth, with the per capita consumption rising to 167 kWh from 151 kWh the previous year, marking a notable increase of 16 kWh per person. Although this suggests progress towards greater access to electricity, the situation with low-carbon electricity generation is less promising. The current low-carbon generation of 42 kWh per person represents a significant decline from the 75 kWh per person measured in 2002. This shortfall indicates that while overall electricity consumption is rising, the expansion of clean electricity sources is not keeping pace, underscoring the need for strategic interventions to enhance sustainable energy solutions.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Tanzania can draw inspiration from successful regions with robust solar and nuclear sectors. Regions like India, with its commendable output in both solar and wind energy, suggest that scaling up solar infrastructure could be highly beneficial. Additionally, the success of countries like the United States and France in nuclear energy highlights the viability of nuclear power as a clean, sustainable energy solution. By investing in solar farms and exploring the potential of nuclear energy, Tanzania could significantly increase its low-carbon electricity output, meeting future demands and contributing positively to reducing the environmental impact associated with fossil fuels.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity in Tanzania is characterized by fluctuations, predominantly in the realm of hydropower. In the early years leading up to the 2000s, modest gains were often offset by declines, with significant increases in 1998 and 2007, when hydropower generation increased by 0.6 and 1.1 TWh, respectively. Despite these increases, the subsequent years witnessed more volatile changes, with several years showing declines, as seen from 2003 to 2006 and again in 2011. Although there have been positive increases, such as a 0.9 TWh rise in 2014 and a 0.7 TWh boost in 2020, these gains have not been sufficient to ensure sustained growth. These historical patterns underscore the urgent need for Tanzania to diversify its low-carbon sources, particularly by tapping into solar and nuclear energy, to achieve stable, substantial growth in its clean electricity capabilities.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade