The Tanzania Electric Supply Company (Tanesco), under the Ministry of Energy, has initiated construction of a 400kV transmission line connecting Chalinze and Dodoma. The project, fully funded by the government at a cost of Sh513 billion, aims to bolster Tanzania’s energy infrastructure and provide reliable electricity to support national development.
The initiative is set to be completed in 22 months, running from November 2024 to September 2026.
Tanzanian Deputy Prime Minister Doto Biteko described the project as a cornerstone of the 2020 Power System Master Plan (PSMP), noting its critical role in transmitting electricity from the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Plant (JNHPP). “This project ensures reliable power supply for economic and social development,” he said.
Key Objectives
The transmission line, spanning 345 kilometers, will facilitate the transfer of 2,115 MW of power from JNHPP to high-demand regions. It will also enhance electricity supply for industrial and mining areas across Northwestern, Northeastern, Central, and Southern Tanzania, and enable interconnections with the Eastern and Southern Africa Power Pools for regional power trade.
Of the total cost, Sh419 billion is allocated for the transmission line, while Sh94 billion is designated for substation upgrades. The government has already advanced Sh107.93 billion—20% of the total—to the contractor, TBEA Co. Ltd.
Progress Update
Significant progress has been made, with line surveys and marking completed, soil investigations at 90%, and site clearance at Chalinze 80% finished. Design work is underway.
Dr. Abel Kinyondo, a senior lecturer at Dar es Salaam University College of Education, emphasized the importance of electricity availability and accessibility in driving productivity. “Efforts to ensure electricity availability are vital, but accessibility must also be prioritized for development,” he said.
Deputy Prime Minister Biteko highlighted the transformative potential of the project, stating that it will significantly improve living standards and foster industrial growth across Tanzania.
The government, through Tanesco, has reaffirmed its commitment to completing the project on schedule while maintaining the highest standards of efficiency and professionalism.