Bente Tranholm-Schwartz, Deputy Head of Unit at DG Climate Action at the European Commission (EC), pointed to natural refrigerants as the way forward in Europe in view of the likely stricter EU F-gas Regulation and upcoming REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) regulation of PFAS chemicals that is targeting f-gases. She made those…
But European Environmental Bureau contends that the proposal falls short by allowing f-gases in applications where natural refrigerants are available.
Stakeholders can submit comments on the European Commission’ proposal to decarbonise buildings until March 15.
The deadline for submitting comments is February 18.
New rules intend to reward the most energy-efficient technologies, such as efficient reversible heat pumps and district cooling networks.
The European Environment Agency (EEA) reports 1% annual gain in f-gas supply in 2020, as well as 7% growth in HFC consumption.
Bente Tranholm Schwarz says f-gas industry has to help Europe achieve climate targets.
Aiming to cut emissions in the EU by 55% by 2030, the proposals include updates to energy efficiency, manufacturing, renewable energy and carbon trading.
The European Commission presented the possibility for more targeted action to address f-gases during a consultation with stakeholders.
ECOS calls for use of natural refrigerants, not HFOs and other new F-gases, whose climate impact is often understated.
