Tanzania has firmly defended its decision to import electricity from Ethiopia, asserting that the move is a calculated economic strategy to meet the nation's escalating energy demands. Government officials have clarified that this initiative is not born out of necessity due to insufficient domestic energy resources. Instead, it represents a proactive approach to secure a cost-effective and dependable power supply, crucial for fueling Tanzania's burgeoning industries and lessening the reliance on more expensive energy alternatives.
The imported electricity from Ethiopia, a country renowned for its significant investments in hydropower projects, is presented as a particularly attractive financial option. Tanzanian authorities have pointed out that the cost of power from Ethiopia is significantly lower than generating electricity from some of their existing domestic sources. This price advantage is a key driver behind the import agreement.
Furthermore, Tanzania's Minister of Energy, Doto Mashaka Biteko, emphasized that the country's energy demand is growing at an impressive rate of 13-15 percent annually. This surge in demand necessitates exploring diverse energy sources to maintain a stable and affordable supply. The Ethiopian deal is seen as complementing Tanzania's long-term energy strategy, which includes the continued development of its own natural gas reserves and investments in renewable energy projects. By diversifying its energy portfolio and engaging in regional power trade, Tanzania aims to guarantee energy security and affordability for both its citizens and its expanding industrial sector.
Source: The Citizen