Zanzibar is experiencing rapid socio-economic growth. This growth, fueled by population increases, tourism, and industrial expansion, has led to a significant rise in energy demand. The 2022 census indicated a population of over 1.8 million, growing at 3.7% annually, which puts further pressure on energy infrastructure and services.
The Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar (RGoZ) launched the Zanzibar Energy Policy 2025 to guide the transformation of Zanzibar’s energy sector, ensuring it is reliable, affordable, sustainable, inclusive, and resilient to climate change.
Zanzibar relies heavily on electricity imports from mainland Tanzania via submarine cables: a 145MW line for Unguja and a 20MW line for Pemba. With increasing demand -Unguja’s peak demand is already at 120MW (83% of capacity). Projected future demands indicate 277MW for Unguja and 33.5MW for Pemba by 2030, which will rise further by 2045.
Zanzibar’s electricity distribution operates through a 33kV and 11kV system, stepping down to 400V. Notable progress have been archived including increasing household connectivity from 44.2% in 2014/15 to 57% in 2019/20 and reducing connection charges.
Zanzibar has significant renewable energy (RE) potential particularly in solar, wind, and biofuels. A 2017 feasibility study confirmed this. Existing installations include two solar off-grid systems on islets and several hotel-based solar systems. Public and private projects under development could add 183MW (solar and wind combined), including 100MW of wind power in Unguja and 20MW in Pemba. The government plans to promote net metering and off-grid solutions for rural areas.
Zanzibar is transitioning from biomass-based energy (firewood and charcoal) to modern energy sources like LPG and electricity. Though firewood use declined from 61.6% (2014/15) to 52.8% (2019/20), charcoal use slightly increased. Conversely, industrial gas use jumped from 1.1% to 7.7%.
To support this shift, the government has worked with private partners to establish a 1,388-ton LPG storage facility at Mangapwani, with five companies importing and distributing gas. Still, high initial costs, low public awareness, and limited rural access to modern energy appliances remain barriers.
Zanzibar’s petroleum sector is privatized and rapidly growing. In 2023, 212.7 million liters of fuel were imported, and consumption reached 206.1 million liters. The Bulk Procurement System (BPS) has improved supply efficiency, and storage facilities now hold up to 21 million liters.