Energy

Approximately 90% of the total energy use in Tanzania is based on wood fuel. In 2007 11,1% (4,3 million) of the population was connected to the national grid compared to 9,3% (3,6 million) in 2006. The provision of electricity is concentrated to larger cities and urban areas, whereas the rural areas have very low access to electricity, about 2 %. The utility TANESCO has set a target of 100 000 new connections to the national grid per year. In addition to that, the new electricity law opens for private investors, cooperatives and others to build and operate power plants and distribution networks.

Swedish support

The energy program provides a balanced support to implementation of strategic reforms and investments. Apart from Swedish contributions to funding of investment, access to modern energy sources in rural areas will be facilitated by the implementation of new institutions like the Rural Energy Agency (REA) and the Energy and Water Regulatory Authority, (EWURA). Investments also gives leverage to Sweden as an important partner in the policy dialogue for the sector development.

Specific support is directed to increase the use of renewable energy sources. This is done through participation in preparation and financing of hydropower projects, facilitation of a market for Solar PV in Tanzania and support to a regulatory framework for bio fuels development.

 

Recent results

  • Out of approximately 30 000 new connections to the national grid in 2007, Sweden through the support to rural electrification projects in Serengeti, Urambo and Makambako-Njombe has contributed to 2 800 new connections.
  • The solar PV market continued to grow in 2007, at a rate of 34.5% compared to 2006.
  • The new Electricity Law, which was drafted with Swedish support, was approved by the President and Parliament in July 2008.

 

Contact:


Göran Haag