Reimagining Coal: How Tanzania Can Lead the Clean Energy Shift

As the world moves toward decarbonization, coal, once the engine of industrial progress, now faces global scrutiny. But for Tanzania, the story doesn’t have to end. In fact, it could mark the beginning of a cleaner, more innovative energy future.

Tanzania is home to an estimated 1.9 billion tonnes of coal reserves, about 25% of which are proven. These are mainly found in Ngaka (Ruvuma), Kiwira (Mbeya), and Rukwa. Geological assessments suggest that total reserves could reach up to 5 billion tonnes, positioning Tanzania as a significant player in Africa’s coal landscape.

Today, coal plays a key role in powering cement production, agro-processing industries, and thermal power generation. There's also a growing shift toward coal briquettes for cooking, promoted as a cleaner, more sustainable alternative to charcoal.

Globally, coal is still a major player. The International Energy Agency (IEA) reports that coal accounts for roughly 35% of the world’s electricity generation in 2024, especially in fast-developing economies. However, it’s also the largest single source of CO₂ emissions, making its traditional use incompatible with global climate goals.

💡 So what’s the path forward?

Countries like Japan are showing that coal can evolve. Companies such as J-Power are investing in ultra-supercritical (USC) technologies and carbon capture systems to reduce emissions and increase efficiency. Their Osaki CoolGen project even demonstrates how coal can be converted to hydrogen while capturing carbon.

For Tanzania, these innovations present an opportunity. With the right investment and partnerships, the country can:

• Develop clean coal infrastructure.

• Explore hydrogen and ammonia production.

• Adopt carbon capture and recycling (CCS/CR)

• Align with climate goals while fueling economic growth.

Tanzania doesn't need to choose between coal and the climate. With vision and planning, it can do both, and lead the clean energy shift in Africa.

References:

1.       https://www.tanzaniainvest.com/coal

2.       https://www.iea.org/reports/world-energy-outlook-2024

3.       https://www.jpower.co.jp/english/business/other_power/

4.       https://www.osaki-coolgen.jp/en/