Dodoma, 30 May 2024: The Ministry of Energy (MOE), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the European Union (EU), inaugurated the Energy Efficiency Project Office, a 146kW Solar PV system, and two electric vehicles in Dodoma. This pioneering initiative marks a significant step in transforming Tanzania’s energy sector to address climate change and promote sustainable development through renewable energy, energy efficiency, and modern transportation systems.

Launched in 2022, the three-year project ‘Implementation of Tanzania’s 1^st Energy Efficiency Action Plan’ has secured €8.75 million (over 24 billion Tanzanian shillings) in funding from the EU and UNDP, with an additional €600,000 (over 1.6 billion TZS) from the Embassy of Ireland. The project aims to improve energy efficiency in households, industries, public utilities, and buildings, ultimately transitioning Tanzania towards greater energy sustainability.

The project is being implemented in collaboration with beneficiary institutions, including the President’s Office - Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG), Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology (DIT), Tanzania Industrial Research and Development Organization (TIRDO), Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA), National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS), National Construction Council (NCC), Rural Energy Agency (REA), and Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO).

The launch of the Energy Efficiency Project Office in Dodoma highlights the beneficial partnership between the Ministry of Energy and UNDP, facilitating effective coordination and implementation of the project.

Deputy Prime Minister of the United Republic of Tanzania, and Minister for Energy, Hon. Doto Biteko, stated, "Today’s event embodies the Government of Tanzania’s commitment to sustainable development and energy efficiency, and it paves the way for a future where Tanzania leads in renewable energy and innovative technology. Together, we are building a resilient and prosperous nation for generations to come. We are grateful for the support of the European Union and the Embassy of Ireland in making energy efficiency a reality in Tanzania.”

Mr. Lamine Diallo, head of Natural Resources in the EU delegation to Tanzania, underscored the EU's commitment to sustainable energy initiatives in Tanzania. "This effort aims to reduce costs, lower carbon emissions, and boost economic activities while promoting gender equality in the energy sector. Key developments include implementing Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS), building codes, and the Young Women Scholarship Programme. The training and certification of Tanzania's first energy auditors and managers, along with new state-of-the-art laboratories, demonstrate our focus on innovation and capacity building."

UNDP is dedicated to advancing Tanzania's Vision 2025 and the SDGs. Speaking at the inauguration event, Ms. Weyinmi Omamuli, UNDP Economics Advisor, expressed her gratitude for the financial and technical support from the EU and the Embassy of Ireland. "Over the past six months, the Embassy of Ireland has joined our energy efficiency efforts, providing additional funding to expand key initiatives in the action plan."

With the objectives of achieving zero-carbon emissions and promoting risk-informed sustainable development, e-Mobility has emerged as a pivotal factor in the sustainable growth of the UN system, particularly through the substitution of Internal Combustion Engines (ICE). The pressing requirement for dependable energy, especially during times of crisis, can be met through solar-integrated technology, enhancing energy resilience while utilising cleaner energy alternatives.

On this occasion, UNDP also unveiled its two electric vehicles (EVs) powered by a solar PV system in the capital, Dodoma. The introduction of these EVs and charging stations marks a significant step towards sustainable transportation. “UNDP urges more stakeholders to embrace electric mobility as a vital move towards reducing emissions and preserving the environment,” explained Weyinmi Omamuli, UNDP Senior Economics Advisor, on behalf of the UNDP Resident Representative.