As CAA recently confirmed the implementation of a new technical assistance in Tanzania, the partnership was formally launched through this announcement below. The initiative, Undertaking Detailed Surface Study for Meru Geothermal Prospect, Northern Tanzania, aims to support the Government of Tanzania in increasing the renewable energy contribution to the national generation mix through low emissions of geothermal energy development for the social and economic benefits of the country as well as providing capacity-building support to TGDC staff on surface exploration and the engagement of indigenous people and local communities.
Ottawa, Canada | Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Funded by Global Affairs Canada, Climate Action Africa (CAA) and the Tanzania Geothermal Development Company Limited (TGDC) are proud to announce the launch of a technical assistance initiative to support the development of the Meru geothermal prospect in Tanzania.
This partnership, a first under the Climate Action Africa initiative in Tanzania, marks a significant milestone in Canada–Tanzania cooperation to advance clean, renewable energy solutions. The project will strengthen Tanzania’s national energy mix by supporting low-emission geothermal development and building technical capacity within TGDC.
The initiative includes two core components: a detailed surface exploration study of the Meru geothermal site and targeted training to enhance local expertise in geothermal resource assessment, planning, and development. It will also promote inclusive engagement with Indigenous peoples and local communities throughout the project lifecycle. TGDC will contribute expertise in geothermal on field data collection as counterpart, facilitating the team by providing key policies in line with the Tanzania Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC). Furthermore, TGDC will introduce the team to all project stakeholders and secure an access to the project area.
In partnership with Oxfam Consults, TownRock Energy (UK), and Aquarius Resources, the initiative will include a detailed surface exploration study, targeted training in geothermal resource development, and inclusive engagement with Indigenous peoples and local communities. This initiative reinforces shared commitments under Tanzania’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) and reflects a strong step forward in advancing sustainable energy solutions.
“This technical assistance will significantly contribute to our national efforts to diversify energy sources by increasing the country’s energy security and reduce dependence on the limited sources of energy by also strengthening TGDC’s institutional capacity in geothermal development” said Mathew Mwangomba, General Manager of TGDC.
“We’re excited to support Tanzania in unlocking its geothermal potential,” said Jaime Webbe, Project Director for CAA. “This collaboration reflects a milestone in climate resilience, sustainable development, and inclusive, locally driven solutions.”
“Our team of geothermal experts is delighted to be able to support CAA and TGDC in this pioneering endeavour to progress geothermal energy in Tanzania” said David Townsend, CEO at Town Rock Energy.
The supports from different development partners, including CAA, played a key role in geothermal development in Tanzania and the government through TGDC, encouraging more partners to support the geothermal energy subsector. Power demand in Tanzania is growing rapidly — by 15 – 20 per cent annually —reaching a peak of 1,921.44 MW in April 2025. To meet this demand, strengthen energy security, and diversify the energy mix, Tanzania is turning to renewables like geothermal, a promising source for sustainable power. This initiative aims to help overcome key technical and financial barriers to geothermal development, and to foster long-term climate resilience and energy security for the country.
View Joint News release here.
The Partnership
Climate Action Africa (CAA)
CAA is a Global Affairs Canada initiative that mobilizes Canadian climate expertise to support Sub-Saharan African countries in meeting their commitments under the Paris Agreement and the UNFCCC. Implemented by Alinea International, Econoler, and WSP, CAA helps strengthen climate legislation, policies, and strategies; supports the implementation of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and National Adaptation Plans (NAPs); and promotes gender-responsive climate action through education and institutional capacity-building, with a focus on women and youth.
Tanzania Geothermal Development Company (TGDC)
Tanzania Geothermal Development Company Limited (TGDC) is a subsidiary company of Tanzania Electric Supply Company Limited (TANESCO); 100% owned by the government of Tanzania, incorporated in December 2013 for the purpose of spearheading the development of geothermal resources in Tanzania. It commenced its business in July 2014 with the mandate, amongst others, to explore, drill and harness geothermal resources for power generation and direct applications. Tanzania is endowed with estimates of 5000MWe and 15000MWth geothermal energy potential and yet has not been tapped for commercial utilization. There about 52 geothermal sites in the country and TGDC has been focusing on five priority projects including Ngozi (70MW), Kiejo-Mbaka (60MW), Natron (60 MW), Songwe (5MW) and Luhoi 5MW.
Oxfam Canada – Oxfam Consults
Oxfam is a global organization working to end the injustice of poverty and inequality by focusing on women’s rights. Oxfam Consults is an Oxfam Confederation wide initiative hosted by the Global Humanitarian Team. It operates more autonomously within the Oxfam milieu, mixing internal and external expertise, depending on the scope of individual projects. Oxfam Consults is a global network, with the ability to mobilize the right team, for the right job, at the right price, within the international aid sector.
TownRock Energy (TRE)
Founded in 2013 by David Townsend, TownRock Energy Limited (TRE) is an award-winning geothermal energy company based in Edinburgh, Scotland. The Company’s pioneering services provide diverse public and private sector clients in the UK and overseas with the valuation, development and operation of geothermal projects. TRE supports projects through their full life cycle, ensuring technical, funding and project management excellence are brought to every stage.
Aquarius Resources (AR)
Founded in 2016 by Helen Robinson, Aquarius Resources is a specialized consultancy with extensive experience working on African and international energy, environment, mining, and water projects. AR provides specific hydrogeology and hydro-geochemistry support in resource and reservoir characterization for geothermal projects, environmental monitoring and impact assessments for energy and mining projects, and humanitarian and WASH projects that includes supporting the UNDP.
