Dar es Salaam, 8 July 2025— The Ministry of Energy, in collaboration with the European Union and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has officially launched the second cohort of the Energy Efficiency Innovation Challenge 2025 in Dar es Salaam. The initiative aims to empower local innovators with smart, homegrown solutions that promote energy efficiency in buildings, appliances, and behavioral change. Winners will receive up to TZS 25 million in seed funding, along with technical mentorship and opportunities to scale their innovations.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Emilian Nyanda, Head of the Environment Unit at the Ministry of Energy, underscored the importance of local innovation in achieving Tanzania’s energy policy and national development goals. “This challenge aims to deliver sustainable energy efficiency solutions that reduce operational costs, save money, and lower carbon emissions,” he said.

Dr. Abbas Kitogo, UNDP Head of Energy, Climate Change, and Disaster Risk Management Portfolio, emphasized the transformative potential of energy innovation: “We’re excited to continue this journey with local innovators who are building solutions that can transform the way energy is used in homes, industries, and institutions. Energy efficiency is not only about technology—it’s also about people and behavior. Through this challenge, we are investing in both.”

The 2024 cohort attracted over 150 applications, with 10 innovators awarded seed funding and technical support. Their projects featured energy-efficient appliances, fuel-saving technologies, waste-to-fuel solutions, clean cooking innovations, and smart agriculture technologies. Several alumni joined the 2025 launch to share their success stories and demonstrate their innovations.

In his remarks, the EU Head of Energy Portfolio, Mr. Massimilano Pedretti reiterated the EU’s commitment to climate action and sustainable development in Tanzania: “The European Union is proud to support Tanzania’s efforts to advance energy efficiency and climate resilience. Through initiatives like this Innovation Challenge, we are promoting green innovation, reducing carbon emissions, and supporting inclusive economic growth. Energy efficiency is a key pillar in our global climate agenda, and we commend the government and local innovators for driving impactful solutions that benefit people and the planet.”

Applications are now open from 8 July to 8 August 2025. With the momentum built from the first cohort, the 2025 Challenge is expected to generate even more scalable, energy-saving solutions to support Tanzania’s growing energy needs.

Submit your application here: APPLY NOW!!!