Oil & Gas

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has reassured Kenyans that the country has sufficient petroleum products to withstand any immediate impact from the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict. EPRA Director General Daniel Kiptoo stated that the government has been proactive by engaging Middle Eastern suppliers to ensure a steady flow of oil, despite the growing instability around the Strait of Hormuz, a key chokepoint for global energy trade.

Speaking during the 17th Annual General Assembly of the Energy Regulators Association of East Africa (EREA), Kiptoo emphasized that while the situation is still unfolding, Kenya operates on a just-in-time supply model and is well-positioned to handle disruptions. “Kenya has enough petroleum products to sustain the country going forward,” Kiptoo said, noting that the impact of the conflict is still too early to quantify.

Beyond oil security, Kiptoo highlighted Kenya's significant progress in clean energy, reporting that 81% of the country’s electricity capacity is now sourced from renewables. Kenya has also seen a 41% increase in electric vehicle registrations and expanded the regulatory framework to support over 15,000 autogas-powered vehicles, signaling the government's commitment to sustainable energy transitions and economic resilience.

As Vice Chair of the International Confederation of Energy Regulators (ICER), Kiptoo stressed the importance of harmonized regional policies, citing EREA’s role in aligning standards across East Africa. He announced that Kenya's nuclear power project site has shifted to Siaya, and celebrated the launch of regulatory guidelines for green hydrogen. These milestones reflect a broader vision: building a more integrated, innovative, and secure East African energy market.