DEPUTY Premier and Energy minister Dr Doto Biteko has applauded the country’s energy sector achievements at a moment when the power company formally switched on the ninth turbine at the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project (JNHPP).

The gradual completion of the project is further boosting the country’s power capacity even as energy demand is projected to rise rapidly in the coming year and beyond, even as authorities fete a major milestone in the energy sector.

The major hydropower project currently generates surplus electricity beyond current demand, enabling the taking of scores of investment projects especially in industry and services, with the deputy premier making the remarks in Arusha over the weekend,

He was addressing a meeting of the parents’ wing of the rung party, explaining the situation in the power sector, underlining that this achievement is a result of strategic investments during the past decade.

He said the country’s electricity generation has grown considerably over the past four years, with peak demand now met and exceeded by current supply, rising steadily from 1,045 MW during fiscal 2017/2018 to 1,908 MW this financial year, a 262 MW increase.

“The milestone meets our national electricity demand and sets the stage for sustainable industrial growth and access to reliable electricity for the entire citizenry,” he stated, noting that this energy surplus will help boost education.

“With reliable power, schools can implement modern teaching tools and technology, enhancing the learning experience for pupils across the country. Moreover, energy-efficient practices are expected to lower electricity costs in schools, allowing more resources to be directed towards quality education,’ he stated.

The energy surplus will also support industrial development, which relies heavily on electricity to operate factories and manufacturing processes, he said, stressing that industrial growth is key to Tanzania’s future. Industries use upwards of 40 percent of the country’s total electricity supply, he pointed out.

Energy ministry and other stakeholders are pushing for the promotion of clean energy, with a focus on energy-saving practices and reducing electricity waste, he said, citing the national clean cooking energy strategy (2024–2034).

It will particularly benefit women and girls by reducing time spent on traditional cooking methods and increasing time for education and income generating activities, he asserted.

“The transformation in the energy sector is not just about meeting electricity needs, it’s about empowering communities, improving livelihoods and creating a better future for the next generation of Tanzanians,” he added.