Delayed rains have resulted in power shortages across east Africa as falling water levels prompt hydro plant operators to curtail generation or even consider shutting plants down.
An electricity shortage has gripped Tanzania as water levels at the Mtera dam falls affecting power supplies in most parts of Dar es Salaam. With a minimum full capacity operating level of 690m, the level has reportedly dropped had dropped to 688.4m recently, leaving the 80MW facility generating as little as 34MW. The lowest possible level permitted by the Ministry of Energy and Minerals is 688m.
Northern neighbour Kenya is also facing power shortages with the water level at Masiga dam in the southeast of the country down by a significant quantity to around 14m above the minimum operational level, although the Kenya Electricity Generating Company has reassured consumers that supplies will remain adequate until March when the rainy season is due.
The Masiga dam is the main reservoir for seven major hydro power stations that contribute more than 50% of Kenyan capacity.
In Uganda, the government is considering shutting down one of the hydro stations in Jinja to maintain the water level of Lake Victoria.