Skip to main content

RFP: Surface Studies Meru Geothermal Field ~Northern Tanzania

Request for Proposal: Surface Geothermal Studies for Meru Geothermal Field in Northern Tanzania

By:Robert Buluma

Image: Tanzanian Elephants cruising through North Tanzania insearch of water and much greener savanna

The renewable energy sector in East Africa is experiencing rapid growth, with geothermal energy emerging as a cornerstone of sustainable development. Among the region’s most promising geothermal sites is the Meru Geothermal Field in Northern Tanzania. To unlock this resource's potential, a Request for Proposal (RFP) has been issued for surface geothermal studies, inviting experienced firms and consultants to participate.

Just a few hours we were hot with news for Songwe Geothermal call for investors , getting into this current status at Meru its obvious Tanzania is not mincing when it comes to tapping the heat beneath our feet.

Objectives of the RFP

The key objective of the RFP is to conduct detailed surface geothermal studies to evaluate the resource potential of the Meru Geothermal Field. The study will focus on identifying and mapping geothermal reservoirs to support future drilling and development initiatives. The scope of work includes:

Geological Surveys: Mapping surface geological features to identify fault lines and geothermal structures.

Geochemical Analysis: Sampling geothermal fluids and gases, including hot springs and fumaroles, to analyze reservoir chemistry.

Geophysical Surveys: Employing advanced techniques such as resistivity surveys, magnetotellurics (MT), and seismic methods to define subsurface reservoirs.

Environmental Baseline Studies: Assessing potential environmental impacts and ensuring alignment with sustainability goals.

Resource Assessment: Estimating the geothermal potential and providing recommendations for future development.

This wont be the first time TGDC is seeking for Tenders, so its evident there is a well structured plan on how this will be executed.

Qualifications for Bidders

Interested firms or consultants must demonstrate proven expertise in geothermal exploration and have completed similar projects in comparable terrains. Key requirements include:

1.Technical Expertise: Proficiency in conducting geological, geochemical, and geophysical studies using modern equipment and methodologies.

2.Regional Experience: A strong understanding of geothermal exploration in East African rift systems or other volcanic terrains.

3.Team Composition: A multidisciplinary team of qualified professionals, including geologists, geochemists, geophysicists, and environmental scientists.

4.Regulatory Compliance: Adherence to local and international standards for environmental protection and safety.

Strategic Importance of the Meru Geothermal Field

Tanzania is prioritizing the development of geothermal energy to diversify its energy portfolio and enhance energy security. The Meru Geothermal Field holds immense potential to supplement the national grid, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and mitigate the effects of climate change.

By harnessing geothermal resources, Tanzania can secure a stable, low-carbon energy supply, promoting economic growth and resilience in the face of climate variability. The successful execution of this project will set a benchmark for geothermal development in the region.

Companies like Toshiba have already set foot in Tanzania an indicator that Tanzania could be a Geothermal powerhouse.

 Proposal Submission and Timeline

Interested parties are encouraged to review the detailed RFP document, which outlines submission requirements, evaluation criteria, and key deadlines. Proposals must provide a comprehensive approach to achieving the project’s objectives and demonstrate the capacity to deliver high-quality results within the specified timeframe. The RFP document can be accessed here. And EOI Submitted climateactionafrica@alineainternational.com as email. 

This is so unique that it entices individual bidders as well as companies however with a foot in Canada.

The Time Frames are stipulated as follows:

Clarity: 17th January,2025

Submission Deadline: 31st January,2025

Award of Contract: 7th February 2025

Source:Climate Action Africa

Connect with us: LinkedIn ,X


Comments

Hot Topics

The geothermal energy sector just witnessed a groundbreaking alliance that could reshape the future of clean power. By:  Robert Buluma   On August 28, 2025 ,  Ormat  Technologies, Inc. , a global leader in geothermal development, announced a strategic commercial agreement with Sage Geosystems  Inc. , a pioneer in next-generation geothermal and energy storage technology. This collaboration is more than just another partnership it’s a bold step into the future of geothermal innovation. Unlocking the Power of Pressure Geothermal At the heart of this agreement lies Sage’s Pressure Geothermal technology , an advanced system designed to extract heat from hot dry rock formations deep beneath the earth. Unlike conventional geothermal methods that rely heavily on water reservoirs, Pressure Geothermal leverages both heat and subsurface pressure unlocking new possibilities for deployment in regions once thought unsuitable for geothermal development. Through this par...

Mercury, Contact Lead NZ's Supercritical Geothermal Energy Revolution

馃寢 From the Ground Up: New Zealand’s Bold Leap into a Supercharged Geothermal Future By:  Robert Buluma In the heart of New Zealand, beneath the rugged volcanic landscapes and steaming geysers, lies an energy revolution waiting to erupt. On July 30th, 2025, a powerful message echoed from the geothermal capital of the Southern Hemisphere — New Zealand is not just embracing its geothermal potential; it is preparing to unleash it. With the unveiling of the draft strategy titled From the Ground Up , the government, led by Minister Shane Jones for Resources and Regional Development, signaled a transformative shift in how the nation will harness the heat beneath its feet — and it's as ambitious as it is inspiring. 馃敟 A Legacy Forged in Steam New Zealand’s geothermal story is deeply rooted in its identity. Long before turbines spun and power grids buzzed, M膩ori ancestors were using geothermal waters for warmth, healing, and cooking. Geothermal, or waiwhatu , is more than a resource — ...
Ormat  Secures 25-Year PPA Extension – Powering Southern California with Geothermal Energy Until 2052 By: Robert Buluma In an era where the world’s energy future hinges on reliability, resilience, and sustainability, Ormat  Technologies has just delivered one of the most significant announcements in the geothermal sector. On August 25, 2025, the Nevada-based geothermal powerhouse confirmed the signing of a 25-year power purchase agreement (PPA) extension with the Southern California Public Power Authority (SCPPA) . This milestone means that the Heber 1 geothermal facility , located in California’s Imperial Valley, will continue delivering 52MW of clean, around-the-clock electricity to millions of Californians until 2052 . For the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) and the Imperial Irrigation District (IID) , this deal secures a cornerstone of California’s baseload renewable energy future . A Cornerstone of California’s Clean Energy Transition “This agree...

DSSA and FirstGen Forge Landmark 440 MW Geothermal Partnership to Power Indonesia’s Clean Energy Future

Landmark Geothermal Partnership: DSSA and FirstGen Join Forces to Unlock Indonesia’s Renewable Future By:  Robert Buluma In a groundbreaking move for Southeast Asia’s energy transition, PT DSSR Daya Mas Sakti , a subsidiary of PT Dian Swastatika Sentosa Tbk (DSSA) under the Sinar Mas Group , has officially signed a Framework Agreement with PT FirstGen Geothermal Indonesia , a company of First Gen’s subsidiary Energy Development Corporation (EDC) , the Philippines’ largest renewable energy producer. This landmark partnership marks the beginning of a joint venture to develop up to 440 MW of geothermal capacity across six strategically located sites in West Sumatra, Jambi, West Java, East Nusa Tenggara, and Central Sulawesi . With Indonesia being home to one of the largest untapped geothermal resources in the world, this collaboration is set to unlock significant opportunities for sustainable growth and energy independence. A Strategic Step Toward Clean Energy The joint initiati...

GeoTHERM 2026: Call for Papers and Tickets Now Open

Join the Movement: GeoTHERM 2026 – Call for Papers & Tickets Now Open By : Robert Buluma The world’s leading gathering for geothermal energy innovation is taking shape once again! GeoTHERM 2026 – Expo & Congress invites geothermal experts, researchers, and industry leaders to be part of shaping the future of geothermie . What’s Happening & When? Mark your calendars— GeoTHERM 2026 will take place on 26 and 27 February 2026 in Offenburg, Germany —a thriving hub dubbed the “centre for future energy in Europe.” As Europe’s most significant geothermal trade fair and congress, this event serves as a springboard for professional exchange, technological showcase, and strategic networking. Ticket Shop Now Open Secure your spot now— the GeoTHERM 2026 ticket shop is officially open ! This is your chance to join the geothermal community in person, access cutting-edge insights, and engage with industry peers. Join the Scientific Programme: Call for Papers Now Live Calling all ...

Innargi Deep: Seismic Surveys Spark Geothermal Heating RevolutionHeading: 艁贸d藕 DiINNARGI Digs Deep: Seismic Surveys Spark Geothermal Heating Revolutiong Revolution

馃實 Seismic Surveys Kick Off Geothermal Exploration in 艁贸d藕 Why 艁贸d藕 is Going Underground for Clean Heat By:  Robert Buluma In an exciting development for climate-focused energy innovation, the Danish company Innargi has teamed up with Veolia Energia 艁贸d藕 to explore the geothermal potential beneath the city of 艁贸d藕, Poland. A letter of intent signed in late 2024 formalized their long-term partnership to decarbonize the city's district heating system by tapping into renewable geothermal resources. Mapping the Earth: What’s Happening & When Starting around August 11, 2025 , seismic surveys are scheduled to begin across four routes covering approximately 160–186 km throughout the city. Specialized vibro‑trucks will send controlled vibrations—lasting roughly 20 seconds—into the ground. These signals are captured by geophones placed in advance along the planned routes. The data will be used to build a detailed subsurface map in just 4 weeks . Survey operations are prima...

Revolutionizing Renewable Energy: Texas Paves the Way for Closed-Loop Geothermal Innovation

Pioneering the Future of Geothermal Energy: Texas Leads the Way with Closed-Loop Systems By: Robert Buluma Vallourec's closed loop concept North of Houston, a transformative geothermal initiative is reshaping the energy sector. NOV, a key player in drilling and completions technology, has successfully completed an 11,500-foot closed-loop geothermal test well, marking a significant step forward in renewable energy development. This project highlights the growing potential of closed-loop geothermal (CLG) systems to redefine energy production. Ejen it comes to Geothermal,Innovation and Technology is key and we have seen alot of new findings lately. Unlocking New Possibilities in Geothermal Energy Unlike conventional geothermal systems that rely on naturally occurring underground water sources, CLG technology operates using a sealed system. A specialized heat transfer fluid circulates through a continuous loop, absorbing heat from deep underground rock formations and transporting it to...

Germany Maps 150+ Deep Geothermal Projects, 2000MW Planned

馃實 Germany’s Geothermal Boom: 2,000 MW in the Pipeline as New Map Reveals Over 150 Deep Geothermal Projects By: Robert Buluma Germany is turning up the heat—literally—on its clean energy future. A newly released map from the German Geothermal Energy Association (BVG) shows a dramatic surge in deep geothermal energy projects across the country. Titled "Deep Geothermal Projects in Germany," the map offers a comprehensive snapshot of over 150 geothermal projects currently in planning, with a staggering potential to generate up to 2,000 MW of thermal energy , and in some cases, electricity. 馃攳 Current Geothermal Landscape in Germany According to the BVG, there are now: 42 operational deep geothermal plants 31 provide only heat 9 produce both heat and electricity 2 generate electricity exclusively 16 plants currently under construction 155 new plants in the planning phase 8 research facilities 170 thermal baths powered by geothermal sources The currently installed capacity stan...

Indonesia’s Geothermal Power Surge: Barito Renewables Unleashes Five Game-Changing Projects

A New Chapter in Indonesia’s Energy Future Has Begun. By:  Robert Buluma In a historic move that signals Indonesia’s unwavering commitment to a greener future, PT Barito Renewables Energy Tbk (BREN) has pulled the curtain back on five cutting-edge geothermal power projects under its subsidiary, Star Energy Geothermal . The inauguration, which took place virtually on June 26, 2025 , was no ordinary milestone—it was presided over by none other than President Prabowo Subianto himself, underscoring the national importance of this initiative. Set in the lush geothermal landscapes of Salak and Wayang Windu in West Java , these projects aren’t just about generating electricity—they’re about igniting transformation. 馃攱 A USD 365 Million Bet on Green Power Barito Renewables is putting its money where its mission is, investing USD 365 million to inject an additional 112 MW into Indonesia’s energy mix. This expansion is expected to create over 3,300 jobs , supercharging local econom...

Pentagon Expands Geothermal Push to Strengthen Military Energy Security

Pentagon’s Power Play:  DoD Expands Geothermal Push to Fortify U.S. Military Energy Security By:  Robert Buluma In a move that blends cutting-edge clean energy technology with the uncompromising demands of national security, the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) is ramping up its geothermal initiatives to ensure mission assurance and round-the-clock power for military installations. The stakes are high — with threats from wildfires, extreme weather, cyberattacks, and power shortages looming larger than ever, the Pentagon is betting on geothermal’s resilience to keep bases operational no matter the conditions. A United Front for Energy Resilience Through the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) , the DoD is partnering with the Air Force, Army, Navy, and Marines to de-risk geothermal development and pave the way for full-scale power plant construction on military bases. Six geothermal innovators have been tapped for the mission: Eavor  – Pioneers in closed-loop geotherma...