"EU, UNDP, and Ministry of Energy Open Cutting-Edge Energy Efficiency Laboratory in Tanzania"

On Friday, October 13, 2023, the European Union (EU), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Ministry of Energy (MoE) inaugurated an energy efficiency laboratory with state-of-the-art technologies at the Tanzania Industrial Research and Development Organization (TIRDO).

The laboratory will be used for practical teaching and providing energy auditing services in industries, commercial buildings, and households.

The laboratory is part of the implementation of Tanzania's 1st Energy Efficiency Action Plan, which aims to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all in Tanzania. The Action Plan is being implemented by the MoE and UNDP with support from the EU.

“The laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art energy efficiency technologies, including energy monitoring and analysis systems, energy modelling software, and energy efficiency testing equipment,” said Ms. Bahati C. Mtono, Director of Human Resources, Administration, and Management at the Ministry of Energy.  She further emphasized that the project's support is vital in aligning with the government's priorities for achieving sustainable energy access for all. This endeavor brings energy efficiency interventions into focus, particularly in the enhancement of the TIRDO Energy Efficiency Laboratory with state-of-the-art energy efficiency technologies, equipment, and tools. This development enables the laboratory to provide energy auditing services to businesses and organizations across Tanzania.

Among the primary tasks of the project within the context of the execution of the 'Energy Efficiency Action Plan' is the development and implementation of a framework for the management of large energy consumers.

Building national capacity in energy management and audit is a crucial component of the action, allowing optimal energy management practises to be adopted and considerable advantages such as energy savings, cost savings, and carbon emissions reduction to be achieved.

“At UNDP, we saw first-hand the expertise of these professionals through initiatives like the pilot energy audit and management program at PSSSF, Aga Khan Hospital and Silafrica Ltd. This strategic approach has transformed our energy expenses and realized significant savings, setting an example for other partners to undertake similar ventures,” explained Mr. Sergio Valdini, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative.

"The laboratory is a key part of Tanzania's efforts to transform its energy sector and achieve its sustainable development goals. The EU is committed to supporting Tanzania in its transition to a clean and sustainable energy future.”

"The European Union is proud to support the inauguration of this energy efficiency laboratory," said Mr. Lamine Diallo, Head of Natural Resources at the EU Delegation to Tanzania. 

Eng. Ramson Mwilangali, the Director of Engineering Development at TIRDO, expressed, "TIRDO was founded with the mission to provide support for training and research in the realm of industrial development. Today signifies a momentous achievement for our organizations as we journey toward sustainable energy, with unwavering support from the EU and UNDP, under the coordination of the Ministry of Energy. The Energy Efficiency Lab at TIRDO is now fully equipped, serving as a testament to the close collaboration between our development partners and the Tanzanian government in advancing energy efficiency practices.

Moreover, the TIRDO Energy Efficiency Lab stands as an exceptional platform for fostering collaboration and partnerships among national and international stakeholders. Our vision is for it to become a vibrant hub for knowledge exchange, where experts can freely share ideas, best practices, and insights to expedite the adoption of energy efficiency solutions," he added.

Recently this year, TIRDO in collaboration with the Tanzania Electric Supply Company Limited, Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology and UNDP conducted a pilot study in the three selected pilot study areas in Dar es Salaam on energy analysis, evaluation, and implementation of energy efficiency measures or energy conservation measures. In addition, the project has enhanced TIRDO employees with international trainings (both classroom and field based) and certifications to become certified energy auditors and managers.