Tanzania-Zambia Power Grid Project

Key Figures & Findings:
Tanzania is advancing its energy cooperation with neighboring countries by building a Grid Interconnector with Zambia to address Zambia’s drought-driven power crisis. Deputy Prime Minister and Energy Minister Doto Biteko shared this development at the Singapore International Energy Week, explaining that Tanzania’s participation in the Eastern African Power Pool gives the country access to larger electricity markets. The grid interconnector project, which began last month, is expected to take 36 months to complete. The interconnection aims to provide a critical power supply to Zambia while enhancing Tanzania’s ability to trade surplus electricity across the region.

Statistics & Insights:
The power grid project with Zambia is part of a $1.4 billion regional power pool plan, initially launched in 2014, linking Tanzania, Zambia, and Kenya's power systems. Tanzania is also negotiating the Host Government Agreement for its LNG project, which involves Equinor, Shell, and Exxon Mobil, and other international partners.

Future Implications:
Once completed, the interconnector could help stabilize the power supply across both countries, mitigating the effects of drought on energy production. Additionally, it could position Tanzania as a regional energy exporter, especially during surplus periods, strengthening the nation's economic and energy sectors in the long term.

Source: CNBC Africa