EPA Delays Refrigerant Transition Plans

The recent announcement made by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin has sent ripples through the HVACR industry. As part of a broader effort towards deregulation to support economic recovery and advance President Trump’s executive orders, the EPA has decided to undertake 31 actions, one of which involves revisiting the Technology Transition rule.

The Technology Transition rule, which is part of the AIM Act, has been a point of contention in the industry since its release in October 2023. The rule restricts the use of higher-GWP HFCs in new refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat pump equipment. Specifically, the rule set limits on GWP for new comfort cooling equipment such as chillers and commercial refrigeration units. Compliance dates for various sectors ranged from 2025 to 2028, effectively phasing out the use of high-GWP refrigerants like R-410A.

Several trade groups, including FMI – The Food Industry Association, have expressed concerns about the rule’s impact on the food industry. They argue that the stringent timelines set by the EPA are burdensome and unrealistic, leading to increased costs for businesses and consumers. Leslie Sarasin, president and CEO of FMI, lauded the EPA’s decision to reconsider the Technology Transition rule, highlighting the need to evaluate the rule to prevent unnecessary financial strains on grocery stores and consumers.

The National Grocers Association (NGA) also welcomed the EPA’s move, emphasizing the importance of reducing regulations that pose significant financial burdens on independent grocers. Chris Jones, chief government relations officer at NGA, emphasized the importance of creating a level playing field for businesses dealing with compliance requirements.

While some industry stakeholders hope that reconsideration of the rule will lead to substantial relief, others caution against expecting major exemptions. Alex Ayers, vice president of government affairs at HARDI, points out that the EPA’s action addresses a specific petition filed by industry stakeholders regarding the future manufacturing of outdoor condensing units. The term “reconsideration” used by the EPA refers to addressing petitions for specific changes rather than a broad reevaluation of the rule.

AHRI echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that any changes resulting from reconsideration would go through a rulemaking process and take time to be implemented. Despite the differing interpretations surrounding the term “reconsideration,” Zeldin praised the EPA’s regulatory measures, emphasizing the broader goal of deregulation to lower the cost of living for Americans and drive economic growth.

As the HVACR industry continues to navigate evolving regulatory landscapes, stakeholders await further updates from the EPA on the future of the Technology Transition rule. Stay tuned for more developments as this story unfolds.