UNEP commissioned a study to assess the feasibility of biofuel production in the Tanzanian regions of Lindi and Mtwara, to run diesel generators that provide GSM antenna's with electrical power. The fact that a strong consumer is pulling for market development will enable small businesses to be created and somewhat guarantee the initial investments.

The most appropriate crop in this region appears to be Jatropha as it is suitable to the specific climatic conditions, gives a good yield per hectare, requires the least investment and maintenance, and can be grown both as hedgerow and through intercropping with other crops. It is suggested to intercrop Jatropha with annual crops such as sunflower during the three year lead period to the first harvest.

In order to reduce production complexities, it is suggested to limit production to Straight Vegetable Oil (SVO). The technical complexities and risks involved with modifying a limited number of diesel engines so that they can use SVO, are found to be smaller than those involved with commercial scale biodiesel production involving an esterification process.

As the project evolves and it becomes increasingly attracting to serve other markets such as local retail markets, expanding the project with biodiesel production capacity may be considered in order to tap into new customer groups.

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