The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has introduced a Quick Response (QR) code system to help Kenyans verify the legitimacy of petrol stations and other petroleum-related businesses. This move is aimed at curbing illegal operators and ensuring that all fuel businesses comply with industry regulations.
How the EPRA QR Code System Works
EPRA’s new digital verification system allows customers to check the authenticity of a fuel station’s license by simply scanning a QR code displayed on its license. Here’s how it works:
- Locate the QR Code
- The QR code will be displayed on the license of all legally registered fuel stations, LPG dealers, and petroleum transporters.
- Scan the QR Code
- Use a smartphone camera or QR code scanner app to scan the code.
- View License Information
- Once scanned, the QR code will display the following details about the business:
- Registered Name
- License Number
- License Application Date
- License Expiry Date
- Renewal Date
- Company Address
- License Type
- Once scanned, the QR code will display the following details about the business:
- Confirm Legitimacy
- If the details match the official EPRA records, the business is genuine and compliant.
- If no details are retrieved, or the license information appears fake or expired, customers should report the station to EPRA.
Why EPRA Introduced the QR Code System
This initiative comes in response to rising concerns over fake fuel stations and illegal LPG businesses operating without valid licenses. Many Kenyans have complained about substandard fuel and fraudulent dealers, leading EPRA to tighten regulations.
By introducing the QR code verification system, EPRA aims to:
- Protect consumers from counterfeit fuel and substandard petroleum products.
- Enhance transparency in the fuel sector.
- Identify and shut down illegal petroleum businesses.
- Strengthen compliance with the Petroleum Act, 2019.
Strict Penalties for Non-Compliant Businesses
Businesses that fail to comply with EPRA regulations face harsh penalties under the Petroleum Act, 2019:
| Offense | Penalty/Fine |
|---|---|
| Operating without a valid license | Ksh10 million fine |
| Importing/exporting LPG without a license | Ksh10 million fine |
| Running a non-licensed LPG facility | Ksh10 million fine |
| Refilling/branding LPG cylinders without authorization | Ksh10 million fine |
| Transporting petroleum products without a license | Ksh250,000 fine |
| Obstructing EPRA officials during an inspection | Ksh100,000 fine per day |
| Possessing unauthorized LPG seals | Ksh20,000 fine per seal |
EPRA has warned businesses against engaging in fraudulent activities and urged Kenyans to report any suspicious fuel stations or LPG dealers.
EPRA’s Response to Concerns Over Fuel Quality
The rollout of the QR code verification system follows an increased number of complaints from Kenyans about the quality of fuel sold at some stations.
Recently, an online user questioned the authenticity of fuel being sold in certain petrol stations, prompting EPRA to reassure the public that fuel in Kenya meets strict quality standards.
However, the agency cautioned against using unverified gadgets to measure fuel quality, stating that accurate Research Octane Number (RON) ratings can only be confirmed through official laboratory tests.
What This Means for Kenyan Consumers
With the QR code system in place, Kenyans can now:
- Easily verify the legitimacy of fuel stations before refueling.
- Report fake, expired, or suspicious licenses to EPRA.
- Avoid falling victim to fuel fraud and counterfeit petroleum products.
- Encourage compliance within the fuel industry.
Final Thoughts
EPRA’s introduction of the QR code system marks a significant step in regulating Kenya’s fuel industry and protecting consumers from illegal businesses.
By making it easier for Kenyans to verify fuel stations, the system promotes transparency, curbs fraud, and ensures compliance with petroleum regulations. Customers are encouraged to use the QR code scanning feature whenever they visit a petrol station to confirm its legitimacy.
