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Expertise

Energy, Oil & Gas Legal Services in Kenya

The energy, oil, and gas sector is a cornerstone of Kenya's economy, yet it remains one of the most complex and highly regulated industries. Businesses operating in this space, from exploration companies to retail distributors,face a myriad of legal and regulatory challenges that demand specialized expertise. At BIK ADVOCATES LLP, our team provides strategic legal counsel that helps our clients navigate this intricate landscape, ensuring full compliance, mitigating risks, and optimizing operational efficiency.

Our legal services are built on a solid foundation of understanding the key legislation governing this sector, including the Petroleum Act, 2019 , the Energy Act, 2019 , and the Petroleum (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) Regulations, 2019. We work closely with regulatory bodies like the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) to ensure our clients' operations align with all national laws and standards.

The energy sector's inherent risks, be they environmental, operational, or legal, require a proactive and comprehensive legal strategy. Partnering with a specialized law firm is not just about compliance, it's about securing your investments and enabling sustainable growth. Our legal expertise provides you with:

  • Risk Mitigation

    We help you identify and address potential legal pitfalls, from environmental compliance to contractual disputes, protecting your business from costly litigation and penalties.

  • Operational Optimization

    By drafting clear, robust contracts and ensuring smooth regulatory processes, we help streamline your operations and minimize delays.

  • Strategic Growth

    Our counsel helps you structure partnerships, negotiate tenders, and secure financing in a way that aligns with your long-term business goals.

We offer a full spectrum of legal services tailored to the unique needs of the energy industry, covering both upstream (exploration and production) and downstream (distribution and retail) operations.

1. Commercial & Supply Agreements

The success of your business hinges on well-drafted contracts. We specialize in negotiating and drafting a range of agreements that protect your interests and ensure profitability. These include:

  • Business-to-Business (B2B) Supply Agreements: We create and review contracts for the bulk sale and supply of petroleum products, ensuring clarity on pricing, delivery terms, and liability.
  • Retail Agreements: We provide legal guidance on structuring Dealer Owned, Dealer Operated (DODO) and Company Owned, Dealer Operated (CODO) agreements.
    • In a DODO agreement, the dealer owns the station outright and purchases petroleum products from the oil company, typically under a branded agreement.
    • In a CODO agreement, the oil company owns the station but an independent dealer operates it under a management contract.

2. Regulatory Compliance & Licensing

Operating in the energy sector requires a maze of licenses and regulatory approvals. We guide you through the process of obtaining and maintaining all necessary permits from EPRA and other governmental bodies, ensuring your operations are always above board.

4. Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS)

Compliance with environmental regulations is non-negotiable. We assist clients in navigating the requirements of the Environmental Management and Co-ordination Act (EMCA) and its subsidiary regulations, helping you manage environmental impact assessments and ensure safe operational practices.

5. Dispute Resolution

Should a conflict arise, our litigation lawyers are well-equipped to represent you in disputes related to contracts, regulatory matters, and environmental liability. We work to resolve conflicts efficiently, whether through arbitration, mediation, or litigation at the appropriate court or tribunal. You can learn more about our expertise in this area on our litigation and dispute resolution page.

Frequently Asked Questions

The energy sector in Kenya is primarily governed by the Energy Act, 2019, which provides a comprehensive legal framework for the production, supply, and distribution of all forms of energy.

Additionally, the Petroleum Act, 2019, specifically regulates the exploration, development, and production of oil and gas. These acts ensure that all operations are conducted within a clear, regulated environment, protecting both investors and the public.

Power Your Business with Confidence!

Navigating the complexities of the energy, oil, and gas industry requires legal insight and strategic planning. Partner with us to ensure your operations remain compliant, efficient, and legally sound.

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