Study on challenges to the solar minigrid developers

TAREA is conducting a study on the challenges facing solar mini grid developers.

On 20 January, 2017 TAREA has met with stakeholders, working with mini-grids, and representatives from the public sector to discuss a study on the effect of the EIA Audit Regulations of 2005 Part II on solar mini-grids, producing less than 1 MW, in Tanzania.

These regulations require Small Power Producers, projects creating less than 1 MW, to do an Environment Social Impact Assessment. TAREA, supported by BEST-Dialogue, is interested in studying the effects of this procedure and its impact on the solar mini-grids sector in Tanzania.

The workshop started with a unit on the current plans regarding the implementation of the study. This was followed by a round of questions and a discussion.

The study is on-going and results will be presented and discussed later on. The results will be used for advocating National Environment Management Council to exempt mini grids producing 1 MW or below from conducting an Environmental Impact Assessment.