KPC Nakuru depot gets a bottom loading facility

The Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) has constructed an ultra-modern bottom-loading facility at its Nakuru depot.

Cabinet Secretary for Energy and Petroleum, Davis Chirchir said the new facility will enhance safety during loading as well as reduce environmental pollution in KPC's petroleum product distribution network.

He noted that besides increasing the loading capacity, the new facility was aligned with the government's commitment to environmental sustainability.

Speaking during the facility’s commissioning ceremony that was graced by Nakuru Governor, Susan Kihika and KPC Managing Director, Joe Sang, the CS highlighted the importance of bottom loading in the petroleum industry's safety and sustainability.

He noted that the bottom loading facility that was constructed by internal staff portends increased business revenues for KPC.

“So far, the facility has returned more than Sh70 million in revenues since its operationalisation a month ago,” said Chirchir.

In its strategy, KPC is embracing technology as a business driver and enhancing business continuity and risk management.

Bottom loading is the transfer of liquid to a vessel through a bottom valve or extending the transfer pipe to the bottom of the vessel which results in a faster, smooth flow in filling the compartment.

Chirchir said the new system minimised petroleum product losses during loading, thus safeguarding the environment and reducing potential hazardous emissions into the atmosphere.

“The bottom loading facility marks another milestone in the petroleum industry's evolution and promotes safety, environmental sustainability, and enhanced efficiency,” he said.

Sang said the new facility will significantly improve product distribution's turnaround time because it was faster.

“With faster loading times, more tankers will be filled and the waiting period for dispatch can be significantly reduced,” he observed.

He added that the bottom loading facility was a Key Performance Indicator (KPI) in KPC's Strategic Plan which is aimed at enhancing customer service.

The Strategic Plan also targets to implement new technologies that boost efficiency.

Governor Kihika the facility would improve service delivery and meet the growing demand for petroleum products within the County, the country and the region.