WHO NEEDS COAL WHEN YOU HAVE RENEWABLES.

WHO NEEDS COAL WHEN YOU HAVE RENEWABLES.

Tanzania is actively undergoing an energy transformation. As the country continues to activate turbines for the controversial Julius Nyerere Hydro Power Project (JNHPP), the question arises, "Who needs coal when you have renewables?".

Tanzania is endowed with abundant renewable energy resources, including wind, solar, and hydro. For example, the Makambako Wind Farm and the solar projects in Shinyanga and Dodoma highlight the potential to harness natural energy. These projects generate sufficient and affordable electricity, reducing the harmful environmental impacts associated with coal. "Is Tanzania in need of coal?"

Tanzania's geographical location near the equator offers immense potential for solar energy. With an average of more than 2,800 hours to 3,500 hours of sunshine annually, Tanzania can leverage solar power to meet its energy needs. Wind resources along the Rift Valley and coastal regions also provide significant opportunities for wind energy projects. These natural advantages should encourage Tanzania to refrain from coal, which is associated more with pollution and profiteering than with the welfare of Tanzanians.

It should be noted that Coal combustion is a major source of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, contributing significantly to global warming and climate change. For example, in 2020, Tanzania's CO2 emissions from fossil fuels and industry amounted to roughly 10.9 million metric tons (from coal, oil, and gas). By leveraging renewable energy sources like solar and wind, Tanzania can reduce its carbon footprint and mitigate the harmful environmental impacts associated with coal.

The effects of climate change are becoming increasingly evident. The unusual weather patterns experienced during March, April, and May 2024 should serve as a wake-up call. These climate anomalies have caused widespread disruption and damage, emphasizing the urgent need to transition to cleaner energy sources. Renewable energy can help mitigate these effects by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting environmental sustainability.

As Tanzania prepares its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) for climate action, the role of coal must be critically examined. This should parallel to the way coal is reported by accountability actors in the country. For example, the Controller and Auditor General (CAG) reports have repeatedly highlighted the non-compliance of coal companies, particularly concerning Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) obligations. These reports reveal a troubling pattern of neglect and environmental degradation by coal companies, underscoring the need for a shift towards more responsible and sustainable energy sources.

As Tanzania is drafting its NDCs, the draft NDCs should reflect a strong commitment to reducing reliance on coal and prioritizing renewable energy investments. Addressing coal in our NDCs will demonstrate our dedication to combating climate change and protecting our environment for future generations.

Embracing renewables offers us the opportunity to build a sustainable economy. Renewable energy projects create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and reduce energy costs. By investing in clean energy, Tanzania can foster a more resilient and diversified economy, less dependent on fossil fuels and less vulnerable to global energy price fluctuations.

Renewable energy also improves the health of the citizens. Coal-fired power plants release harmful pollutants that contribute to respiratory diseases, heart conditions, and other health problems. By shifting to renewable energy, Tanzania can reduce air pollution, improve public health, and lower healthcare costs. This transition will enhance the overall quality of life for Tanzanians.

Protecting our environment for future generations is a moral imperative. The exploitation of coal resources leads to deforestation, water pollution, and loss of biodiversity. Renewable energy sources, on the other hand, have minimal environmental impact. By investing in renewables, we can preserve our natural heritage and ensure a healthier planet for our children and grandchildren.

It's time to move away from coal.