Unlocking Tanzania’s Solar Energy Potential Through PPPs

Tanzania is experiencing rapid growth in energy demand, driven by urbanization, industrialization, and the government’s goal of universal electrification by 2030. While hydropower and natural gas remain dominant, the country’s rising energy needs call for diversification into renewable energy. Solar power, supported through Public - Private Partnerships (PPPs), offers one of the most promising solutions.

Why PPPs Are Key for Solar in Tanzania

1. Bridging Investment Gaps: Utility-scale solar plants require significant upfront capital. PPPs allow government, private investors, and development partners to share financial responsibilities.
2. Technology Transfer: Collaborating with global solar developers ensures Tanzanian engineers and technicians gain the expertise needed to operate and maintain advanced systems.
3. Efficiency and Oversight: PPP structures create shared accountability, ensuring projects remain commercially viable while aligning with national strategies such as Vision 2050 and the National Energy Policy (2015).

Current and Pipeline Solar Projects in Tanzania

Tanzania has already taken major steps to integrate solar into its energy mix, with several large and small projects under development:

• Kishapu Solar Power Station (Shinyanga Region, 150 MW planned): The first phase (50 MW) is underway, with financing support from the French Development Agency (AFD) and construction by Sinohydro. This is Tanzania’s first grid-connected utility-scale solar farm.
• 100 MW Solar PV Tender (Shinyanga): TANESCO has invited bids for the design and construction of another major solar project, reinforcing the shift toward large-scale solar.
• Makunduchi Solar PV Project (Zanzibar, 18 MW): A World Bank–backed initiative under the Zanzibar Energy Sector Transformation and Access Project (ZESTA), focused on supplying the islands with clean energy while training local staff.
• Off-Grid Solar Projects (Kasulu District, Kigoma Region): Solar mini-grids are being rolled out to power UNHCR logistic bases, demonstrating how solar can support humanitarian and remote-area operations.
• REA/JUMEME Mini-Grids in Lake Victoria Islands: Eleven hybrid mini-grids have been deployed, serving thousands of households and small businesses, with support from REA, EU grants, and private operators.
• Community and Institutional Projects: Smaller solar systems for schools, health centers, and local businesses across regions such as Ukerewe and Karagwe are proving effective for social services and productive use.

Where Solar Works Best in Tanzania

• Central and Northern Regions (Dodoma, Singida, Manyara): High irradiation, expanding cities, and industries in need of reliable power.
• Rural Off-Grid Zones (Shinyanga, Tabora, Kigoma, Rukwa): Mini-grids and stand-alone solar systems can accelerate electrification where grid extension is too costly.
• Southern Highlands (Mbeya, Njombe, Iringa): Solar for irrigation, cold storage, and agro-processing can transform agriculture.
• Islands & Coastal Areas (Zanzibar, Mafia, Lindi, Mtwara): Solar hybrid systems reduce reliance on expensive diesel generators.

Strategic Pathways for Tanzania

1. Strengthen PPP Frameworks

• Update PPP regulations to streamline renewable energy deals.
• Introduce tax incentives and risk guarantees to attract investors.

1. Develop Financing Mechanisms

• Establish Renewable Energy Infrastructure Funds with support from local pension funds, TISEZA, and development partners.
• Issue Green Bonds to tap into international climate finance.

1. Upgrade the Grid

• Modernize the transmission and distribution network to handle intermittent solar power.
• Integrate battery storage for grid stability.

1. Build Local Capacity

• Partner with universities and technical institutes to train a skilled solar workforce.
• Require foreign contractors to provide hands-on training and local subcontracting opportunities.

1. Launch Flagship PPP Projects

• Use projects like Kishapu and Makunduchi as demonstration models for replication across other regions.
• Prioritize mini-grids for rural districts to show immediate impact in electrification.

Conclusion

Tanzania’s abundant sunshine is one of its greatest untapped resources. With the right policies and strong PPP frameworks, solar energy can become a pillar of the national energy mix reducing reliance on imports, powering industries, improving rural livelihoods, and creating green jobs.

The projects already underway in Shinyanga, Zanzibar, Kigoma, and Lake Victoria islands prove that solar power is not a distant dream but an achievable reality. By scaling up these efforts, Tanzania can light up every corner of the country sustainably, affordably, and inclusively.