Tanzania explores nuclear power to diversify energy mix

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania is exploring nuclear technology as part of efforts to diversify its energy mix and meet projected electricity demand of 70,000 megawatts by 2050, with discussions under way with Russia’s state-owned nuclear energy company Rosatom.

The move comes as the country’s installed generation capacity reaches 4,646MW, against peak demand of about 2,271MW, following the commissioning of the 2,115MW Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project (JNHPP).

Tanzania has an estimated 57 trillion cubic feet of natural gas reserves, which have long supported electricity generation. Hydropower has since gained prominence, accounting for more than 60 percent of capacity, according to the figures provided. However, the government is considering additional energy sources to support industrialisation, meet future domestic demand and potentially expand electricity exports to neighbouring countries.

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are among the options being considered, with proponents arguing that nuclear power could provide reliable, low-carbon electricity alongside hydro, natural gas, solar and wind.

Speaking at the St Petersburg International Economic Forum in Russia in June 2026, President Samia Suluhu Hassan said Tanzania was interested in developing a diversified clean energy mix, including small nuclear power plants.

“We’re transitioning to clean energy. We’re interested in the sort of energy mix that will enable us to generate clean energy. We’re interested in building small nuclear power plants, which Rosatom is currently discussing with Tanzania,” she said.

President Hassan also said foreign direct investment had risen to about $5 billion in 2025, from nearly $3 billion in 2021, describing Tanzania as open to investment and innovation.

Russia partnership Nuclear energy featured in President Hassan’s talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin on June 3, 2026, as the two countries explored ways to expand economic cooperation.

President Putin identified energy, geological exploration, transport, logistics, healthcare and education as potential areas for collaboration.

President Hassan, meanwhile, acknowledged Russia’s historical contribution to Tanzania’s development and expressed appreciation for the longstanding relationship between the two countries. The discussions reflect Tanzania’s interest in Russian expertise as it considers whether nuclear technology can form part of its long-term electricity generation plans. However, the scale, cost and implementation timeline of any nuclear power project remain key considerations.

Diversification crucial Energy experts say diversifying generation sources could help reduce the risks associated with dependence on hydropower, whose output can be affected by drought and changing rainfall patterns.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Energy Felchesmi Mramba said climate change had demonstrated the need to avoid relying on a single source.

“We cannot rely on one source of energy because climate change has taught us a hard lesson. Diversifying our energy mix to include cleaner and more reliable options like nuclear is no longer a luxury but a necessity for our industries and the SGR,” he said.

Tanzania Atomic Energy Commission Director General Najat Kassim Mohammed said the country was preparing for the safe use of nuclear technology, in line with international standards.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has also indicated its willingness to support Tanzania’s nuclear capacity through training and technical cooperation, according to its Africa Division Director, Gashaw Gebeyehu Wolde.

Building local expertise Developing local skills and regulatory capacity will be critical if Tanzania proceeds with nuclear power. Such projects require rigorous safety oversight, trained personnel, appropriate infrastructure and long-term financing.

Tanzania Electric Supply Company (Tanesco) currently uses hydropower, natural gas and diesel to generate electricity. Adding nuclear power would further diversify the country’s generation sources, although the technology’s feasibility will depend on detailed technical, financial and safety assessments.

With demand projected to rise sharply over the coming decades, Tanzania faces the challenge of expanding generation while ensuring reliable, affordable and sustainable electricity for households, businesses and major infrastructure projects.

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October 21, 2026