The European F-gas Regulation has recently been reviewed with the aim of strengthening the core elements of the Regulation (517/2014).
The F-Gas Regulation creates controls on the use and emissions of fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-gases) including HFCs, PFCs and SF6. In the commercial refrigeration sector, this includes professional cabinets and retail display cabinets; the F-Gas Regulation affects the use of HFCs as refrigerants and as blowing agents for the insulation foam.
The UK is phasing down the use of HFC (hydrofluorocarbon) refrigerants to 79% by 2030, when compared to the average use of HFCs between 2009 and 2012. The phase down also applies to mixtures containing these gases.
R404a has the highest GWP (global warming potential) of the commonly used refrigerants, at 3922 kg/kg and since 2020 has been banned in new stationary equipment,. Only recycled R404a can be used for service work.
There are alternatives with a lower GWP and better efficiency which would be beneficial in terms of energy use and potential damage to the environment. The short supply of R404a has already led to an increase in price
