In clean energy we trust

Abstract

In Tanzania, the top development agenda is the pursuit of expanding energy supply and access in both rural and urban areas. The purpose is to realise a viable transition to sustainable and universal access to clean energy. While the efforts are visible, there is still a need to increase access through a diverse approach. One of the possible approaches is through a potential energy co-operative model. Thus, this study explores the feasibility of the energy co-operative model as a complementary strategy in expediting production, distribution, and access to clean energy in Tanzania. The study documents the global success stories of energy co-operatives, examines how energy co-operatives in a worldwide perspective can be adapted in Tanzania to enhance energy access for sustainable development. Using desk review, interview and thematic analysis, the study found that the global north has successfully established and democratised energy co-operative models to increase energy access. Countries like Denmark, Germany and the United States of America have strong energy co-operatives that supply clean and modern energy to mega and small consumers in urban and rural areas. The study found that the true success factors for energy co-operatives in the global north include the enabling policy and legal frameworks, stakeholders’ involvement, financial support, and technological advancement that allows diverse forms of clean energy production and distribution, such as biogas. Moreover, the study expounds that Tanzania has the potential to expand energy streams and access using the available resources, such as environmental richness, supportive regulatory authority, collaboration, and partnership between the private and public sectors. The national energy strategy and objectives in Tanzania offer a conducive environment for clean energy production by the private sectors, which in turn contribute to the expansion of electricity supply for sustainable development. Strategic policy adjustments and co-operative sector regulation can serve as a viable alternative energy supply effort.