Proto Energy and Equity Bank have announced a strategic partnership to break down the financial barriers hindering clean energy adoption in Kenya.

By introducing two specialized credit facilities, the Autogas Conversion Loan and the Institutional LPG Conversion Loan, the collaboration pairs Equity Bank’s financial reach with Proto Energy’s technical infrastructure to accelerate the country’s transition to Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG).

The joint initiative targets the significant initial capital required for LPG systems, offering a clear pathway for both commercial fleet operators and large organizations to transition to cleaner energy.

Designed for ride-hailing drivers, private motorists, public service vehicle operators, and corporate fleets, the Autogas Conversion Loan funds the installation of dual-fuel systems. Technical execution will be handled by Proto Energy’s dedicated division, OTOGAS, while Equity Bank structures flexible repayment terms.

Following a benchmark of approximately 20,000 converted vehicles reached in Kenya by late 2024, this new financing stream aims to scale adoption rapidly.

To help public and private facilities move away from traditional biomass and heavy fuels, the Institutional LPG Conversion Loan finances full-scale infrastructure, specialized equipment, and professional installation for:

  • Primary and secondary schools
  • Colleges and universities
  • Commercial enterprises and public institutions

Joel Kamau, Managing Director of Proto Energy: Stated that pairing gas infrastructure with direct access to credit solves the sector’s primary hurdle. He confirmed the company’s ambition to double Kenya’s Autogas fleet to 40,000 vehicles under this initiative.

Moses Nyabanda, Managing Director of Equity Bank: Emphasized the role of target financing in enabling sustainable choices, noting that financial institutions must actively lower the entry cost for cleaner, more efficient fuel alternatives.