The Ministry of Mines and Energy says it is looking to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) and smart technologies to accelerate the country’s electrification efforts.
The strategic move comes in response to Namibia’s vast geography and low population density, which pose challenges to achieving universal electricity access by 2040 as outlined in the National Electrification Policy.
Minister of Mines and Energy Tom Alweendo said this comes after a realisation that conventional electrification methods alone will not suffice in reaching the ambitious set goal.
“Namibia is a vast country, and as much as our population has grown to 3 million people, our population density remains relatively very low. Therefore, electrification through conventional means would not enable us to achieve universal access by the year 2040. Thus, we will need to make use of modern computing technology like AI together with smart solutions to facilitate our pursuit of universal access to electricity by 2040,” he said.
In terms of challenges, he noted at the 2024 Electricity Supply Industry (ESI) Forum that Namibia’s geographic spread makes grid extension very expensive.
“The Electricity Control Board (ECB) is working on a connection charge code to address this issue, but we have to be careful about how generation and transmission costs are passed to end consumers, especially in communities where people simply cannot afford to pay for electricity. We have already had evidence of how our people are struggling to pay for electricity,” he said.
This comes as recently, NORED informed the Ministry that some households connected to the grid are not consuming electricity due to affordability issues.
The Minister noted that AI and GIS platforms can optimise site selection for electrification networks by identifying ideal locations for grid connections and alternative solutions, such as solar mini-grids and home systems.
He said these smart platforms analyse data to guide optimal investments in electrification and minimise opportunity costs.
“Instead of extending the grid everywhere, we can use geo-data to prioritise localities where demand justifies the cost. However, given that this is a social investment, some communities will have to be heavily subsidised,” he said.
However, Alweendo highlighted that AI has its downsides, as while it promises efficiency, it could also replace human jobs.
“That’s something we must guard against. It’s great to have machines that can predict electricity demand and optimise the grid, but not if it comes at the cost of side-lining our engineers. So, it is important that we ensure that we use AI to complement, but not to replace human expertise,” he said.
At the same event, ECB Chief Executive Officer Robert Kahimise said for regulators, AI will provide tools for better data analysis, enabling more informed decision-making and proactive management of electrical harmonics.
“For licensees, AI can enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs associated with harmonic mitigation. Consumers will benefit from improved power quality and reliability, leading to a more stable electricity supply,” he said.
He also said key considerations for regulators include establishing clear standards and guidelines for harmonic management, while licensees must invest in technology and training to effectively implement these regulations.
“Consumers and customers should be educated about the importance of harmonics and how they can contribute to a more efficient electricity system. As we navigate this evolving electricity landscape, we must also consider the future workforce,” said Kahimise.
He said the rise of AI requires new skills in the industry, and universities are essential in this transition by training graduates who can adapt to these changes and address future challenges.
