Dar es Salaam, 12 September 2025 – The Ministry of Energy, the European Union (EU), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) today awarded TZS 250 million in seed funding to ten outstanding innovators at the second edition of the Energy Efficiency Innovation Challenge held at the Four Points Hotel in Dar es Salaam. The event brought together government leaders, development partners, media houses and youth to celebrate local solutions advancing Tanzania’s sustainable energy transition.

Launched in 2024, the Energy Efficiency Innovation Challenge is part of the implementation of Tanzania’s first Energy Efficiency Action Plan (2022–2025) and supports the newly adopted National Energy Efficiency Strategy (2024–2034). This year, a nationwide call attracted 95 applications, from which ten promising innovators were selected to receive up to TZS 25 million each and technical mentorship to pilot solutions in areas such as efficient appliances, sustainable building practices, and behavior change models.

As the country accelerates it’s just energy transition, Eng. Innocent Luoga, Commissioner for Electricity and Renewable Energy, representing the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy, emphasized the national importance of innovation, noting that “energy efficiency is not only about reducing consumption but also about unlocking opportunities for innovation, job creation, and sustainable industrialization. Through this Challenge, we are empowering Tanzanians—especially youth and women—to take part in shaping the country’s energy future.”

The EU reiterated its commitment to Tanzania’s clean energy agenda. “The European Union is proud to support Tanzania’s journey toward clean energy for all. These innovators represent the creativity and commitment needed to make energy efficiency a reality for households, businesses, and communities. Together, we are contributing to global climate goals and to Tanzania’s Vision 2050,” said Mr. Lamine Diallo, Head of Natural Resources at the European Union.

UNDP emphasized the role of local innovation in advancing inclusive development. “Energy efficiency is a cornerstone of Tanzania’s just energy transition and an enabler of sustainable development. By investing in local innovators, we are not only reducing emissions and creating green jobs, but also ensuring that energy access is affordable, inclusive, and leaves no one behind,” said Mr. John Rutere, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative. 

The Awarding Ceremony showcased the power of innovation, partnerships, and youth leadership in positioning energy efficiency as a national priority for inclusive and sustainable growth.The Innovation Challenge is part of the wider Energy Efficiency Action Plan Project (2022–2025), a flagship Government of Tanzania initiative implemented by the Ministry of Energy in partnership with UNDP, with financial support from the EU and the Embassy of Ireland.
 

To learn more about the Energy Efficiency Action plan, please visit: https://www.energyefficiency.co.tz follow us on social media (Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube) @eetanzania.