Tanzania has set an ambitious target to increase its electricity generation capacity to 8,000 megawatts by 2030, with renewable energy sources expected to account for 75% of the national power mix. This goal was reaffirmed by Minister of Energy, Dr Juma Homera, during the opening of the 10th International Power & Energy Tanzania Expo and the 10th Solar Expo Tanzania 2026 in Dar es Salaam. The Minister emphasized the importance of the energy sector in driving national economic growth and improving livelihoods.
The Minister highlighted that the government has allocated Sh2.4 trillion in the 2026/27 financial year for power infrastructure and development projects, representing 97.5% of its total budget. This significant investment is aimed at achieving the target of 8,000MW of total generation capacity by 2030, while increasing the share of renewable energy from 61.8% to 75%. Dr Homera also noted that the government is streamlining regulatory procedures to facilitate public-private partnerships, which are expected to play a crucial role in achieving the National Development Vision 2050.
The 10th International Power & Energy Tanzania Expo and the 10th Solar Expo Tanzania 2026 have attracted over 160 companies from more than 25 countries, including China, India, and the United Arab Emirates. The exhibitions showcase over 9,000 energy products and technologies, such as photovoltaic modules, battery energy storage systems, and smart-grid metering infrastructure. These events provide an opportunity for technology transfer, business partnerships, and access to energy technologies.
Local energy professionals have welcomed the expo, citing the benefits of direct engagement with international manufacturers. Eng Joseph Mkwawa, a Dar es Salaam-based solar practitioner, noted that direct access to international manufacturers without intermediaries is a major boost for local engineering firms. This allows them to negotiate fair pricing for high-efficiency solar components and smart inverters, which can aid rural electrification and commercial solar adoption in Tanzania.
The expo, supported by the Tanzania Trade Development Authority, Tanzania Energy Association, and Tanzania Investment and Special Economic Zones Authority, runs until October 9, 2026. The events are expected to facilitate links between international investors and relevant government institutions. Dr Homera has directed the organizers to compile a database of international investors attending the expo to facilitate these connections.
The energy sector is considered central to Tanzania's economic growth, sustainable development, and improving livelihoods. The Minister emphasized that the government recognizes the paramount role of the energy sector in driving national economic growth and improving individual livelihoods. The target of 8,000MW of electricity generation capacity by 2030 is a key component of this strategy.
The focus on renewable energy is expected to play a significant role in achieving Tanzania's development goals. With over 160 companies participating in the expo, the event provides a platform for stakeholders to discuss the latest trends and technologies in the energy sector. The government is committed to creating an enabling environment for private sector investment in the energy sector, which is critical to achieving the National Development Vision 2050.
Key points
- Tanzania aims to increase electricity generation capacity to 8,000MW by 2030, with 75% from renewable sources.
- The government has allocated Sh2.4 trillion for power infrastructure and development projects in the 2026/27 financial year.
- The 10th International Power & Energy Tanzania Expo and the 10th Solar Expo Tanzania 2026 have attracted over 160 companies from more than 25 countries.
