The Electricity Control Board (ECB) has enhanced the capabilities of its artificial intelligence-powered assistant, Mr Regulator, as part of a broader digital strategy aimed at improving public access to regulatory information and strengthening stakeholder engagement.
The upgraded AI platform, which is accessible through the ECB’s website, provides real-time responses to enquiries related to electricity regulation, licensing procedures, tariff methodologies, regulatory requirements and national energy policies.
According to the ECB, Mr Regulator has been trained on a comprehensive body of sector-specific information, including the Electricity Act of 2007, grid codes, tariff methodologies, regulatory rules and national energy policy frameworks.
The enhancement comes alongside the launch of the ECB’s dedicated WhatsApp Channel, which will serve as an additional platform for distributing regulatory updates, tariff announcements, licensing notices and consumer awareness information.
ECB Manager for Information and Communication Technology Homateni Ndilula said the regulator is leveraging digital technologies to make information more accessible and improve interactions with consumers and industry stakeholders.
“The introduction of our WhatsApp Channel and the continued enhancement of the Mr Regulator AI assistant reflect the ECB’s commitment to being a modern, responsive and transparent regulator. We recognise that our stakeholders expect information to be accessible, timely and accurate. These platforms represent our investment in meeting that expectation in a manner that aligns with today’s digital environment,” Ndilula said.
He added that the platforms are designed to provide members of the public and industry stakeholders with easier access to reliable information in real time.
The ECB said Mr Regulator serves as an informational tool and does not replace official regulatory communication channels. The AI assistant generates responses based solely on its approved training data, and users requiring formal regulatory opinions or official positions are advised to contact the ECB directly.
The regulator said the digital initiatives form part of its Integrated Strategic Business Plan (ISBP) 2026/27 to 2030/31 and support its commitment to innovation, transparency, accountability and stakeholder engagement.
Through the expanded use of artificial intelligence and digital communication channels, the ECB aims to ensure that households, businesses and electricity sector participants have easier access to information about the regulation of Namibia’s electricity industry.
