Tanzania microgrids and active distribution networks

Are mini-grids a viable option in Tanzania?

Since 2008, the pervasiveness of mini-grids in Tanzania has grown substantially, following EWURA’s introduction of a regulatory framework for mini-grids (SPP framework), which has since been gradually reviewed to effectually provide for mini-grid development (IRENA, 2018 ).

Can Tanzania accelerate mini-grid deployment in Sub-Saharan Africa?

This report is the first major survey of Tanzania’s mini-grid sector. In it, we shed light on lessons from Tanzania that can help accelerate mini-grid deployment across countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. Our analysis points to three key actions for governments and practitioners across the continent:

Are mini-grids a solution to universal electrification in Tanzania?

The estimate that two-thirds of Tanzanians live in rural areas, makes mini-grids an important solution toward universal electrification, given that only 29% of households have access to electricity, an improvement from 18%, six years earlier (REA/NBS, 2020 ).

Is a mini-grid necessary for Tanzania?

Tanzania may serve about half its rural population more cost-effectively with decentralized options than with centralized grid expansion. In 2008, Tanzania adopted a Small Power Producer framework to encourage investment in the sector. Since then, the number of mini-grids in the country has doubled.

What is Tanzania's third generation mini-grid framework?

Tanzania's third generation mini-grid framework, launched in 2017, introduces guidance on grid integration and simplified licensing and registration requirements. Developers of mini-grids must still acquire several licenses, permits, and clearances to build a mini-grid, but the procedures have been streamlined outside the electricity sector.

What can we learn from Tanzania's mini-grid policy and regulatory landscape?

It utilizes the case of Tanzania, to capture facets behind the evolution of the mini-grid policy and regulatory landscape, to draw lessons from. Using success stories, it gauges the policy landscape and regulations in RE mini-grids implementation, and highlights how policies impact viability, scalability, and sustainability.