NAIROBI, Kenya, Feb 11-The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) is reviewing the legislative framework that regulates petroleum activities with the hope of fair pricing, as well as ensuring products meet high standards.
The regulator said it is seeking consensus from players in the industry over new proposed regulations to also ensure that the public has a predictable supply of petroleum products.
The draft regulations, which are in line with the changes occasioned by the Energy Act 2019 and Petroleum Act 2019, are also meant to enhance compliance and gradually reduce or eradicate cases of unscrupulous traders of sub-standard petroleum products or those that put up illegal structures.
The regulator added that conserving the environment is also a key consideration for the guidelines.
EPRA is holding the first sensitization, and consultative sessions forum in Nanyuki town, Laikipia county, thereafter in Nakuru, Eldoret, Kisumu, Mombasa, and eventually Nairobi at the end of this month.
“The proposed regulations will improve petroleum supply and distribution logistics in the country and ensure that only prudently incurred costs are passed onto consumers,” says Acting Director-General Daniel Kiptoo Bargoria.
The regulations, he added, also consider supply and distribution logistics even in instances when we experience serious disruptions in the supply chain.
Kiptoo also noted that EPRA remains focused on developing regulations aimed at empowering players in the energy sector and protecting consumers.
“The proposed regulations provide for stiffer penalties and fines for offenders to bolster compliance levels, ultimately protecting consumers from substandard petroleum products and ensuring they get value for money.”
Stakeholders are urged to submit comments at EPRA’s headquarters, regional offices or through email at petroleum@epra.go.ke.
