Wedoany.com Report-Apr. 11, Tanzanian utility Tanesco has announced a tender to select engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contractors for a 100 MW solar project in Kishapu district, Shinyanga Region, northern Tanzania. The initiative, supported by the French Development Agency (AFD), is part of a broader 150 MW renewable energy program launched in 2021.
Interested EPC firms are invited to submit bids by June 2, with Tanesco overseeing the selection process in Dar es Salaam. The project aims to enhance electricity reliability across the region, addressing growing energy demands. A Tanesco official stated: “This solar plant will diversify our energy sources and ensure a stable power supply for communities and industries.”
The Kishapu solar facility will reduce Tanzania’s dependence on hydropower, particularly during peak usage periods and extended dry seasons. By integrating renewable energy, Tanesco seeks to create a more balanced and resilient energy mix. The project aligns with national goals to expand clean energy infrastructure and support sustainable development.
In addition to serving local communities, the solar plant will provide electricity to gold mines near the site in Shinyanga Region. This will support industrial operations while promoting the use of renewable energy in key economic sectors. The initiative reflects Tanzania’s commitment to leveraging its natural resources responsibly.
According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Tanzania had 20 MW of installed solar capacity by the end of 2024. The Kishapu project marks a significant step toward scaling up solar energy in the country. Local stakeholders in Shinyanga expressed optimism, noting: “This development will bring reliable power and new opportunities to our region.”
The collaboration with AFD underscores international support for Tanzania’s renewable energy ambitions. The agency’s involvement ensures that the project meets high technical and environmental standards, fostering confidence among potential contractors. Tanesco has emphasized transparency in the tender process to attract qualified firms.
The solar plant’s construction is expected to create jobs in Kishapu, boosting the local economy. Training programs for workers will enhance skills in renewable energy technologies, contributing to long-term growth. A community leader in Shinyanga remarked: “We look forward to the benefits this project will bring, from employment to cleaner energy.”
By advancing its solar capacity, Tanzania is strengthening its energy infrastructure and reducing environmental impacts. The Kishapu project represents a practical step toward meeting national energy needs while supporting global renewable energy goals. As the tender progresses, Tanesco remains focused on delivering a reliable and sustainable power solution.
