Recently, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that it will reconsider the Technology Transition Rule on Refrigerants, a regulation that directly impacts the HVACR industry (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration). This measure is linked to the transition to low Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants, a regulation that has garnered both support and criticism from various sectors. This information was sourced from ACHRnews.com, a trusted news outlet for the HVAC industry.
What Is the Technology Transition Rule on Refrigerants?
The Technology Transition Rule was part of the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act, introduced in October 2023 and revised in December of the same year. This regulation sets strict limits on the use of high-GWP refrigerants, such as hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), in refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat pump (RACHP) systems. Specifically, for stationary air conditioning and heat pump systems, the rule establishes a 700 GWP limit for most refrigeration equipment, set to take effect on January 1, 2025.
This change forces HVAC manufacturers to adopt low-GWP refrigerants like R-32 and R-454B, leading to the gradual phase-out of R-410A, a high-GWP refrigerant.
How Does This Reconsideration Affect the HVACR Industry?
On March 13, 2025, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced that the agency will review the implementation of this rule due to its impact on certain sectors, particularly the food industry. Zeldin argued that the technology mandates imposed by the rule have increased costs, affecting food prices in supermarkets and other establishments, as well as industries like semiconductor manufacturing.
It is important to note that this reconsideration could affect the timeline for implementing new regulations in the commercial refrigeration sector, particularly in supermarkets and convenience stores. The rule requires commercial refrigeration systems to comply with a GWP limit of 150 or 300, with deadlines ranging from 2026 to 2028. Due to these restrictions, several trade associations, such as the Food Industry Association (FMI), have filed lawsuits, claiming that the implementation deadlines are unrealistic and financially damaging to retailers.
Industry Reactions
Industry groups like FMI and the National Grocers Association (NGA) have welcomed the reconsideration of the rule. They argue that a regulatory review could ease the financial and administrative burden on businesses, especially independent supermarkets, which are less equipped to comply with costly regulations. According to Leslie Sarasin, President and CEO of FMI, revising the rule is essential to prevent further increases in food prices due to high refrigeration costs.
On the other hand, organizations such as HARDI (Heating, Air-conditioning & Refrigeration Distributors International) and AHRI (Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute) clarify that this reconsideration does not necessarily mean a drastic overhaul of the rule. Instead, the EPA is responding to specific industry requests for adjustments to certain aspects of the regulation, such as outdoor unit manufacturing.
Implications for the Future of the HVACR Sector
While the EPA’s reconsideration may lead to modifications in the regulation, it is important to remember that any changes will undergo a regulatory process, which could take a year or more to implement. Additionally, states that have adopted stricter regulations, such as California, New York, and Washington, may continue enforcing their own standards, independent of federal actions.
In summary, the EPA’s reconsideration of the Technology Transition Rule could have a significant impact on the HVACR industry, especially in commercial refrigeration. While some sectors support a review to ease economic burdens, others emphasize that the shift to low-GWP refrigerants remains essential in the fight against climate change. What is clear is that HVAC regulations will continue evolving, and businesses must stay informed to adapt and comply with these emerging standards.
The EPA’s review of the Technology Transition Rule raises an important discussion on balancing environmental impact mitigation with economic realities. As an HVAC company, staying informed about these regulations is crucial for planning ahead and ensuring your infrastructure is prepared for future regulatory demands.
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By Calixto Armas
