The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) warned Kenyans against producing electricity above one megawatt without proper licensing.
In a notice dated Thursday, December 22, the regulator noted that there were a number of Kenyans who were generating electricity above the set limit without following proper procedures - therefore putting lives at risk.
Also targeted were electricity generators that were supplying the same to residential and industrial buildings.
Consequently, EPRA advised those affected by the notice to apply for licenses before action is taken against them.
"The license application should be submitted within 90 days from the date of this notice.
"Failure to comply with this requirement makes it an offence and shall attract penalties as prescribed in law," read the notice in part.
According to Section 118 of the Energy Act 2019, those found guilty of the face could face a hefty fine and a jail term of one year.
"A person who carries out any electricity undertaking without a license commits an offence and shall, on conviction, be liable to a fine of not less than one million shillings or to a term of imprisonment not less than one year or to both such fine and imprisonment," the notice added.
EPRA explained that its move was necessary as it wanted to safeguard the lives and property of Kenyans.
"The essence of licensing these generation plants is, among other reasons, to ensure that such installations are constructed in accordance with set standards, particularly the safety parameters," EPRA stated.
Those who were affected by the notice were advised to visit the authority to get the proper documentation.
EPRA added that they would also take the time to renew licenses that had expired.
