NEMA Sends Reminder to All Refrigerator Importers as Deadline Nears

The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and the Ministry of Environment, Climate change and Forestry have notified refrigeration and air conditioning gas importers to apply for 2025 annual licenses.

In a statement, NEMA announced that 2025 is the last year for Kenya to import HCFC (Hydrochlorofluorocarbons). The quota system allows Kenyans to import up to 171.6 Tonnes in 2025.  

“All importers are notified that the year 2025 will be the last year allowed for Kenya to import HCFC under the Montreal Protocol and the attendant amendments, of which Kenya is a signatory and has ratified the same,” part of the statement read.

“Importers are hereby reminded that the phase-out date for importation of HCFC for Kenya is 1st January 2026. All applications for the licenses shall be made online through the Kenya Electronic Single Window System website. The deadline for application is 28th February 2025.” 

In the statement, NEMA reiterated that importing the refrigeration and air conditioning substances without a valid license is an offence under the Environmental Management and Co-ordination Regulations. 

Also Read: NEMA Launches Crackdown in Nairobi; Multiple Arrested

How to Apply for a License on NEMA Portal 

Clients can submit their applications online by visiting NEMA Licensing system on the E-citizen portal. Alternatively, clients can use the NEMA licensing portal link on their website.  

After submitting online applications, clients will receive an email that prompts them to make payments. They can pay through Airtel Money, Equity Cash, M-Pesa, Debit/Credit cards, or T-cash among other payment methods.   

Clients will receive a copy of the receipt on email.

Also Read: NEMA Issues Notice for Countrywide Crackdown

NEMA will process the permit/license and communicate once it is ready for collection. 

Why NEMA Will Block HCFC Importation in 2026 

HCFC, also known as Hydrochlorofluorocarbons, are chemicals that are commonly used as refrigerants. The Hydrochlorofluorocarbons released to the atmosphere deplete the earth’s ozone layer. These chemicals also have an impact on the climate.

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, HCFC emissions erode the ozone layer. The ozone layer protects the earth from the sun’s ultraviolet radiation.  

Some African countries have begun phasing out the HCFC gases. Zimbabwe’s government has completely banned HCFC importation in a bid to preserve the ozone layer.