Tanzania’s Energy Dilemma: Is Coal the Key to Sustainable Progress?
Tanzania’s energy scenario is marked by striking contradictions. The government promotes an “energy transition” reliant on imported LPG gas, a strategy that burdens rural women with exorbitant costs while enriching foreign gas companies. Meanwhile, despite ongoing droughts causing blackouts, hydropower still enjoys political favoritism, while coal—a domestic resource rich in potential—remains largely untapped.
The focus on imported LPG gas highlights a troubling political miscalculation. Take, for instance, a mother in Tabora who once relied on free firewood and now faces the harsh reality of paying Sh3,600 for LPG per kilogramme, significantly pricier than Tanzania’s own LNG. This reliance on imports, funded by taxpayer money, neglects local alternatives that could alleviate economic stress for families.
Contrastingly, in the Ruvuma region, local entrepreneurs are producing coal briquettes sold at Sh500 per kilogramme, offering three hours of cooking for just one kilogramme—far more efficient than charcoal, which requires multiple kilograms at a much higher price. Yet, despite vanishing forests—losing 400,000 hectares annually—this local solution is overlooked.
Coal stands as a culturally and economically viable option for energy. The connection between grilling with charcoal and African culinary traditions is undeniable, reflecting a practicality grounded in accessibility. Moreover, coal is not only more energy-efficient, but it also emits less CO₂ than charcoal and LPG, making it a more sustainable choice when paired with efficient stoves.
Tanzania’s coal reserves, estimated at 5 billion tonnes, have the capacity to provide energy for East Africa for an entire century. Contrastingly, other nations ramp up fossil fuel usage, while Tanzania limits itself by exporting coal instead of using it to fuel domestic growth. This misalignment raises questions about equity in climate action: why should Tanzania’s resources benefit others while local communities struggle with energy shortages?
The ongoing energy crisis in Tanzania demands real, immediate solutions as hydropower falters and transmission losses continue to plague the grid. A strategic investment in coal power plants—starting with a 200MW facility in every region—could generate up to 5GW of electricity within five years while addressing the critical issue of energy availability for homes and industries.
To tackle these challenges effectively, a decisive shift towards utilizing domestic coal resources is essential. Prioritizing localized coal power plants, replacing costly charcoal with affordable coal briquettes, and leveraging Tanzania’s LNG reserves could represent a transformative approach to energy policy. Additionally, it is vital for wealthier nations to uphold their climate finance commitments to support Africa’s renewable energy transition, acknowledging their historical contribution to climate change.
Tanzania stands at a crossroads. Embracing coal responsibly could serve as a bridge to a sustainable energy future that prioritizes the needs of its citizens. The energy debate should be focused on practical solutions that ensure energy access and economic growth rather than purely ideologically driven narratives.
As the nation navigates these complexities, it is clear that Tanzania’s energy strategy must reflect its unique circumstances and potential, fostering a balanced approach to harnessing its natural resources efficiently for the benefit of all.
