New UNEP report recognizes: There is no ‘one-size-fits-all' refrigerant solution

In a new report analysing the critical role of HFCs in protecting the climate, The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) warns that the increased use of high GWP HFCs will undermine the significant climate benefits achieved by the global phase-out of ozone depleting substances (ODS). It recognizes, however, that there is no ‘one-size-fits-all' refrigerant solution.

According to the UNEP report, the phasing-out of ozone depleting substances under the Montreal Protocol lead to the largest reduction to date of global greenhouse gas emissions. In 2010 alone, it achieved an annual emission reduction of 10 Gt of CO2eq which is about five times greater than the annual emissions reduction target of the Kyoto Protocol's first commitment period. HFCs have been the replacement of choice for ozone depleting substances, as they are safe, technically easy to use and do not deplete the stratospheric ozone layer. However, many of them have a high global warming potential (GWP) which is the reason why, if no further action is taken, their emissions may offset the significant climate benefit achieved by the Montreal Protocol.

Several options are available to avoid this from happening, the report continues. As a first step refrigerant emissions can be reduced by improving equipment design and technical procedures during manufacturing, use, servicing and disposal as well as by reducing the refrigerant charge. Further reductions can be achieved by employing alternative methods and processes, the use of non HFC substances such as ammonia, CO2 and hydrocarbons and the use of low GWP HFCs. However, UNEP clearly recognizes that there is no ‘one-size-fits-all' solution to replace HFC refrigerants. The solution will depend on many factors such as the local situation for production and use, the cost of different alternatives, the availability of components and the feasibility of implementation.

Furthermore, UNEP points out that alternative refrigerants still need to overcome numerous barriers. These include: the need for further technological developments, risks due to flammability and toxicity, regulations and standards that inhibit the use of alternatives, insufficient supply of components, investment costs and lack of relevant skills among technicians.

EPEE, the European association of manufacturers of heating and cooling equipment, supports UNEP's conclusion that further action is needed to reduce the climate impact of heating and cooling equipment. Andrea Voigt, EPEE's Director General explains: "Market growth and on-going replacement of ODS will lead to a steep increase in HFC emissions and by 2050, over 75% of global HFC emissions will be generated by developing countries. Therefore, EPEE strongly supports a global phase-down scheme for fluorinated gases."

Furthermore, EPEE shares UNEP's view that there is no ‘one-size-fits-all' solution to replace HFC refrigerants in all applications. The association warns that industry should not be rushed into using new technologies as this may turn out to be counter-productive for energy efficiency and the climate. Moreover, it may put at risk installers and technicians if they are forced into using flammable or toxic refrigerants for which they may still lack sufficient skills.

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