The revised EPA refrigerant rules provide greater flexibility for supermarket and cold-storage operators in transitioning to low-impact refrigerants. Key points include:
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Interim GWP Limits:
- Supermarkets: GWP limit of 1,400 starts in 2027, dropping to 150 or 300 by 2032.
- Cold-Storage Warehouses: Interim limit of 700, with the same stricter limits as supermarkets by 2032.
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Equipment Upgrades: Operators can increase cooling capacity by 15% without triggering new installation rules.
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Existing Equipment: Current systems can continue operating until the end of their useful life; only new installations are affected by compliance dates.
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California Regulations: Separate, stricter state requirements remain in place, requiring operators to lower their GWP by specific deadlines (e.g., below 1,400 by 2030).
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HFC Phasedown: The phasedown on HFC production continues, with allowed supply decreasing over the coming years, which may impact refrigerant availability.
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Planning Considerations: Companies must evaluate equipment condition, existing state and federal regulations, and future needs in making renovation and replacement decisions.
Overall, while the EPA rules provide some relief, they do not completely negate the need for timely upgrades in light of various regulatory pressures.
