Government Introduces Stricter LPG Regulations to Enhance Safety
The government has unveiled new regulations in the energy sector, imposing restrictions on refilling LPG cylinders between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi announced the changes, emphasizing that they aim to improve safety and accountability in the sector.
According to Wandayi, any exceptions to the time restrictions must be approved by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).
Under the new rules, autogas stations are also required to operate within specific hours set by EPRA’s local guidelines. In addition, operators must possess valid licences or permits, with violations attracting steep fines, business closures, or both.
Wandayi warned that safety breaches, including failure to meet fire extinguisher, emergency control, or storage standards, would result in significant penalties.
He further cautioned operators against engaging in unauthorized practices such as refilling, tampering with cylinder seals, or failing to requalify cylinders. Offenders could face financial penalties and other disciplinary actions.
“Non-compliance could see sector players facing licence suspensions of up to nine months or, in severe cases, permanent revocation,” Wandayi stated.
The regulations come in the wake of a tragic gas explosion in February 2024, which claimed six lives and left over 200 people injured. Wandayi noted that the incident underscored the urgent need for stricter safety measures in the LPG sector.
However, industry stakeholders have criticized the new measures, describing them as overly restrictive and harmful to businesses. They argue that limiting operating hours contradicts Kenya’s vision for a 24-hour economy and may disrupt the supply-demand balance.
Concerns have also been raised about the proposed increase in licensed gas cylinder owners, from 30,000 to 70,000. Stakeholders warn that this could discourage investment in the sector.
These issues add to the ongoing debate about business and capital flight from Kenya, a matter currently under review by a taskforce appointed by President William Ruto.
For consumers, the regulations mandate LPG suppliers to provide accessible complaint resolution systems. Unresolved issues will be escalated to EPRA for action.
Consumers will also be entitled to refunds for deposits paid when acquiring LPG cylinders. The deposit amounts will be fixed by the regulations and protected from deductions due to cylinder wear or degradation.
Wandayi defended the measures, asserting that they are critical for enhancing safety and accountability in the energy sector.
