Tanzania’s Prime Minister, Kassim Majaliwa, announced the closure of five hydroelectric stations to address excess electricity in the national grid. The main plant, Mwalimu Nyerere Hydroelectric Station, alone generates enough power for major cities, including Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s commercial hub.
This is the first time Tanzania has closed hydroelectric stations due to excess production, highlighting the unprecedented situation caused by abundant electricity supply. The decision reflects efforts to balance supply and demand amid chronic power shortages in the country.
The shutdown comes as the 2,115MW Julius Nyerere Hydropower Dam reaches near-full capacity due to heavy rains earlier in the year. In contrast, Tanzania has an installed capacity of 1,938MW and a grid installed capacity of 1,899MW. Comparatively, Nigeria, with an installed capacity of 13,000MW, faces challenges in providing electricity to 85 percent of its consumers, underscoring disparities in power distribution across African nations.
Source; Daily Trust