Proto Launches An LPG Pump To Drive Clean Mobility Growth

Proto Energy, through its OTO Gas brand, has entered into a strategic partnership with OLA Energy to introduce automotive Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) dispensing pumps at OLA petrol stations in Nairobi. The launch marks the first phase of a planned multi-site rollout that will expand access to cleaner, more affordable automotive fuel solutions across Kenya.

The partnership leverages OLA Energy’s established fuel retail infrastructure and customer trust to accelerate the adoption of LPG as a viable alternative to petrol and diesel, particularly for vehicles converted to dual-fuel systems. These systems allow motorists to switch seamlessly between LPG and conventional fuel, offering flexibility, cost savings, and lower emissions without compromising vehicle performance.

Globally, LPG is already a proven automotive fuel, with more than 27 million vehicles running on autogas and over 70,000 refuelling stations in operation worldwide. Studies show that LPG produces up to 15–20% lower CO₂ emissions than petrol, while significantly reducing particulate matter compared to diesel. In Kenya, where transport contributes an estimated 40–45% of urban air pollution, cleaner fuel alternatives are increasingly critical to sustainable urban mobility.

Speaking at the launch, Joel Kamau, Managing Director of Proto Energy, said the partnership represents a major step forward in mainstreaming automotive LPG in Kenya.

“This partnership with OLA Energy allows us to take OTO Gas closer to the everyday motorist by integrating LPG into a trusted retail environment,” said Kamau. “Our goal has always been to make cleaner, more affordable energy solutions practical and accessible, and this launch demonstrates that LPG is no longer a niche option but a viable, scalable fuel for Kenya’s mobility needs.”

Kamau added that the initiative aligns closely with national policy priorities.

“The Kenyan government has set a target to increase LPG penetration to 70% by 2028 under the National LPG Growth Strategy. At Proto Energy, we are fully aligned with this vision. By investing in infrastructure and partnerships like this one, we are helping turn policy ambition into on-the-ground solutions that reduce emissions, lower costs, and support economic productivity,” he said.

For OLA Energy, the collaboration reinforces its strategy to evolve beyond traditional fuels and support the country’s transition to cleaner energy options.

“This partnership with Proto Energy reflects OLA Energy’s commitment to innovation and sustainability within the energy sector,” said Mohamed Elhoderi, Managing Director of OLA Energy. “By hosting LPG dispensing at our petrol stations, we are expanding the choices available to our customers while maintaining the quality, safety, and reliability they expect from the OLA brand.”

Mohamed noted that co-locating LPG pumps within existing stations creates efficiencies for both consumers and operators.

“Leveraging our existing network allows us to introduce cleaner fuel solutions without requiring entirely new infrastructure. This model is commercially sound, scalable, and aligned with the future of energy retail in Kenya,” he said.

Kenya already has a strong foundation for LPG growth, with approximately 24–31% of households using LPG as their primary cooking fuel. This widespread familiarity with LPG, supported by an established regulatory framework, provides a solid base for expanding its use into the transport sector. The OTO Gas–OLA Energy partnership builds on this trust while addressing the country’s need for affordable and lower-emission mobility solutions.

The Buruburu launch is the first of several planned LPG pump installations under the partnership, with both companies indicating intentions to scale the model across additional OLA Energy stations. Beyond private motorists, the initiative is expected to attract interest from fleet operators, logistics companies, and ride-hailing platforms seeking to manage fuel costs and reduce environmental impact.

As Kenya balances economic growth with sustainability imperatives, the collaboration between Proto Energy and OLA Energy positions automotive LPG as a practical transition fuel- one that delivers immediate cost benefits while contributing to cleaner cities and a more resilient energy future.

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