Niël Terblanché
While Namibia navigates the complexities of energy supply and consumption, the electricity supply industry (ESI) aims to position itself as a leader in adopting Artificial Intelligence (AI) and smart solutions to provide efficient, affordable, and sustainable electricity.
In this regard, the Electricity Control Board (ECB) of Namibia announced in a statement on Wednesday that it is set to host the 9th edition of the ESI Forum and sports games in Otjiwarongo on 24 October.
According to the ECB’s chief executive officer Robert Kahimise, this year’s forum, themed “Delivering the Promise: Using Smart Solutions in an AI-Driven Environment to Improve Electricity Access, Affordability, and Utilities’ Sustainability,” will be a key event for introducing ground-breaking technology to the electricity supply sector.
“The forum aims to highlight the importance of integrating innovative smart solutions and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies into Namibia’s electricity sector,” he said.
Kahimise stressed the critical nature of this technological shift.
“We are on the brink of a significant transformation in how we manage and deliver electricity services. The integration of AI-driven programs is essential for enhancing electricity access, affordability, and the sustainability of our utilities,” he said.
Kahimise said that the interactive and interconnected systems now available to electricity licensees could revolutionise the way electricity is distributed across Namibia, especially in rural and underserved regions.
“AI technologies have the potential to improve operational efficiencies, streamline power distribution, and reduce costs, ultimately benefiting both utilities and consumers,” he explained.
The ESI Forum will serve as a platform for collaboration and discussion among key industry players, with an emphasis on how smart solutions can be implemented to improve customer experience and service delivery.
Kahimise pointed out the urgent need for the industry to embrace AI-driven solutions in their operations.
“As we move towards a future where AI becomes integral to electricity management, stakeholders must adopt these technologies to meet the growing demands of Namibia’s electricity consumers,” he said.
In addition to engaging discussions and presentations, the forum will be live-streamed, allowing a wider audience across Namibia and beyond to participate in the conversation.
Kahimise extended an open invitation to all stakeholders, including members of the public, to join the dialogue.
He reiterated the ECB’s commitment to fostering collaboration and communication in the industry, ensuring that all participants work together towards a sustainable future for Namibia’s electricity supply.
The event will bring together prominent stakeholders from across the electricity supply industry, including senior government officials, regional electricity distributors (REDs), independent power producers, and consumer representatives.
Tom Alweendo, the Minister of Mines and Energy has been invited to officially open the event.
The ESI Forum, first held in 2006, has become a biennial event and a vital platform for industry stakeholders to exchange ideas and share best practices.
