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The head of the Electricity and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (Epra) has said that gas cylinder brand owners are losing up to Sh1.2 billion every year due to illegal LPG refilling.
Over the past three years, the state agency has cracked down on illegal LPG filling stations across the country and has confiscated 26,000 LPG cylinders.
Epra Director General Daniel Kiptoo announces the return of the first 6,000 recovered patients LPG cylinders their respective brand owners.
He reiterated Epra’s resolve to recycle more cylinders in the upcoming drive and stressed on restoring order and fairness in the LPG distribution chain.
In a bid to combat rampant illegal activities in the LPG sector, Epra has launched a nationwide drive against illegal LPG refuelling activities.
“The cylinders are often diverted for other uses and not sent back for refilling, which results in significant financial losses to legitimate brand owners,” he said.
The regulator said the practice undermines investments in manufacturing, branding and marketing, and affects the overall integrity and safety of the LPG market.
Between June 2023 and June 2024, crackdowns targeted illegal refueling plants in Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru and Eldoret, during which a total of 32 illegal facilities were closed.
Recently, the police conducted a decisive raid in Utidini area of Machakos County and seized a LPG tanker, refueling equipment, and a batch of empty bottles used for illegal refueling.
Additionally, a small truck loaded with refilled LPG cylinders ready for distribution was also intercepted, leading to the arrest of four suspects who are now facing criminal charges for operating an unauthorized facility.
EPRA has issued a stern warning to all LPG refuelling operators, stipulating that any violation of the Energy (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) Regulations 2009 will attract immediate penalties, including seizure of refuelling equipment and revocation of refuelling licences.
These regulations require all dealers to have at least 5,000 registered LPG cylinders or participate in effective protocols for replenishment activities, ensuring compliance with safety and brand standards.
The crackdown is in line with Kenya’s ambitious plan to expand LPG use through the LPG Reticulation Project, which aims to install LPG reticulation kits in 5,000 public schools by the end of the year.
This move underscores the government’s commitment to promoting clean energy solutions and safeguarding the interests of consumers across the country.
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