Kenya's energy sector players face stringent regulations as the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority moves to implement the Electricity Incident and Accident Reporting 2024 laws.
The regulations aim to reinforce safety and ease incident reporting in the electricity industry.
Proposed changes include reporting of incidents within 48 hours to EPRA and insurance coverage for any liability.
Licensees will also be required to put in place safety and health measures to avert loss of lives, maiming, loss of property, or damage to the environment due to electricity-related accidents arising from poor use or illegal activities.
EPRA Director General Daniel Kiptoo said that the new regulations were drafted in collaboration with Kenya Power and the Directorate of Occupational Safety and Health Services (DOSHS).
He said the existing laws do not effectively guarantee the protection of life, property, and the general safety of the public, which the new regulations aim to address.
“As we anticipate these developments, it is only prudent to ensure the safety of everyone involved in the energy sector,” said Kiptoo.
Kiptoo said the regulations require the regulator to set up an online system for easier reporting of incidents or accidents.
He said the regulations would improve safety practices and infrastructure maintenance in the energy sector.
Kiptoo said the laws would further ensure transparency and accountability in the energy sector.
He said EPRA would conduct a survey to ensure the regulations are being implemented.
