Government installs transformers to boost power supply in Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam. The government has announced installation of new transformers at Kinyerezi 1 power generation station in a bid to enhance electricity supply in Dar es Salaam.

The transformers with a combined capacity exceeding 500 Mega Volt-Amperes (MVA) increase reliance on natural gas which is used at Kinyerezi 1, as a key energy source.

The deputy Minister for Energy, Ms Judith Kapinga, said yesterday that the initiatives aim to address the rising energy demands driven by the city’s rapid economic growth and development.

“To improve electricity availability, two transformers will be installed at Kinyerezi 1 and two others will be installed at Mbagala and Gongolamboto,” said Ms Kapinga during a visit to the Kinyerezi 1 gas-fired power plant.

She emphasised that the strategic investments would ensure a more sustainable and reliable energy supply while supporting the city's economic expansion.

Ms Kapinga, speaking on behalf of the Deputy Prime Minister and minister for Energy, Dr Dotto Biteko, revealed that the new transformers for Mbagala and Gongolamboto would be installed within two months.

“Previously, electricity demand was growing at a rate of six percent annually. Today, it is increasing by 16 percent.

“The rise in demand reflects the growth of our economy,” she said.

She added that maintenance work aimed at improving the reliability of electricity supply had been undertaken in several areas of Dar es Salaam over the past week.

Highlighting progress at Kinyerezi 1, Ms Kapinga said: “Back in 2015, we initiated the Kinyerezi 1 extension project to expand the power plant’s capacity by 180 MW. Today, the plant generates 335 MW, reflecting our ongoing commitment to improving electricity access for Tanzanians, particularly in Dar es Salaam.”

She acknowledged that certain areas in the region continue to face challenges in electricity availability due to rapid economic and social growth.

“We are compelled to frequently undertake projects to address the growing electricity demand in Dar es Salaam,” she said.

Tanzania Electric Supply Company Limited (Tanesco) managing director Gissima Nyamo-Hanga noted that Dar es Salaam serves as a critical hub for electricity supply, also powering coastal areas such as Mkuranga, Bagamoyo and Zanzibar.

“The demand for electricity has risen sharply, especially in industrial zones like Mkuranga. Observing the high consumption in areas such as Mbagala, Gongolamboto, and Mkuranga, the government has responded by installing additional transformers to meet this growing need,” said Mr Nyamo-Hanga.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure to support both residential and industrial energy demands, ensuring steady progress in the region’s development.