What is the F-Gas Regulation?

The F-Gas Regulation is a set of European Union laws designed to control emissions from fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-Gases), including HFCs (hydrofluorocarbons), which are commonly used as refrigerants in cooling systems such as chillers.

Originally introduced in 2007 and significantly revised in 2024, the regulation has undergone further updates to align with the EU’s commitment to climate neutrality. A major revision came into effect in March 2024, with tighter restrictions being phased in from 2025 onwards.

Why Does It Matter?

F-gases are potent greenhouse gases – some thousands of times more harmful than CO₂ in terms of global warming potential (GWP). By progressively reducing the use and emissions of these gases, the regulation supports global climate targets while encouraging a shift toward low-GWP or natural refrigerants.

A Closer Look at the F-Gas Regulation

The “new” F-Gas Regulation is formally known as Regulation (EU) No 517/2014 and was introduced to reduce the EU’s F-gas emissions by two-thirds by 2030, compared to 2014 levels. In March 2024, a major revision was adopted that sets even more ambitious targets and accelerates the HFC phasedown timeline.

The HFC Phasedown Schedule

At the heart of the regulation is the HFC phasedown, which uses a quota system to gradually reduce the amount of HFCs (measured in CO₂ equivalent tonnes) allowed on the EU market. The baseline was set in 2015, and the quota shrinks over time, with steep cuts introduced in stages. For example, by 2024, the quota stood at just 31% of the 2015 baseline, and it will drop even further – to 24% in 2027, and just 5% by 2036. This will significantly reduce the availability of high-GWP refrigerants and push the market towards sustainable alternatives.

Placing on the Market Restrictions

The regulation includes specific bans on the sale of new equipment that uses high-GWP refrigerants. From 2027, chillers using refrigerants with a GWP higher than 150 will no longer be allowed for most stationary applications. This restriction is already in place for some commercial refrigeration equipment and is being extended to include chillers and heat pumps.

This means specifiers and procurement teams need to check the GWP of the refrigerant in any new system that they intend to buy. Even if the chiller is technically suitable, it may not be legal to install after certain dates if it uses a restricted refrigerant.

Servicing and Maintenance Bans

For existing equipment, the regulation introduces gradual bans on using certain HFCs for servicing. Since 2020, systems using refrigerants with a GWP over 2500 (like R404A) have been banned from being serviced with virgin gas. Only reclaimed or recycled refrigerants can be used, and even that exception expires in 2030.

This is a major consideration for facilities with aging chillers. While the equipment itself may still be operational, sourcing refrigerant for maintenance could become difficult or cost-prohibitive. It also raises questions around system downtime, efficiency, and long-term feasibility.

Operator Responsibilities

End users and operators have legal duties under the F-Gas Regulation. These include:

Preventing leaks and repairing them promptly
Keeping records of refrigerant charge, servicing, recovery, and disposal
Ensuring only certified personnel handle refrigerant

Neglecting these responsibilities can lead to non-compliance, penalties, and environmental harm.

What Should Buyers Be Asking?

With the F-Gas Regulation reshaping the refrigeration landscape, it’s essential that buyers of chillers ask the right questions and consider long-term implications. Whether you’re replacing ageing systems or specifying new installations, forward planning will help to ensure compliance, cost control, and environmental responsibility.

Key Questions to Ask:

What refrigerant does this chiller use, and what is its GWP? Understanding the Global Warming Potential of the refrigerant is critical. If it exceeds current or upcoming thresholds, the system may soon be restricted or banned.

Is this refrigerant likely to be phased out, or subject to future servicing restrictions? Avoid investing in equipment that relies on high-GWP gases which are becoming increasingly expensive or unavailable.

Is this chiller designed for a long service life with refrigerant availability in mind? Choosing systems that use natural or low-GWP refrigerants like R290, R1234yf, or R454C can help futureproof your investment.

What are the manufacturer’s plans for regulatory compliance and refrigerant support? Reputable suppliers should be able to demonstrate how their equipment aligns with current and future F-Gas requirements.

Can this system be maintained by F-Gas certified engineers, and are maintenance protocols in place? Proper certification and recordkeeping are legal requirements – ensure that you have the support to manage this effectively.

Points to Consider Going Forward:

Total Cost of Ownership: While low-GWP chillers may carry a higher upfront cost, they often reduce long-term expenses by avoiding regulatory penalties, refrigerant scarcity, and servicing complications.

Supplier Expertise: Work with manufacturers who offer in-depth knowledge of the F-Gas Regulation and provide ongoing support, including compliance documentation, training, and system design advice.

Environmental Targets: Align your cooling system with your organisation’s sustainability goals by selecting systems that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption.

System Lifespan and Risk Mitigation: If you’re investing in equipment intended to last 10+ years, make sure it won’t become obsolete or non-compliant within that period due to refrigerant restrictions.

What Next?

By asking the right questions now you can make confident, compliant, and sustainable decisions that will stand up to the rapidly evolving regulatory landscape.

The updated F-Gas Regulation marks a significant shift in how cooling systems are designed, maintained, and purchased across Europe. As the pressure increases to transition away from high-GWP refrigerants, businesses that rely on process cooling must act now to stay ahead of compliance deadlines and operational risks. Whether you’re reviewing your current systems or planning a new installation, making informed, future-proof choices is more important than ever.

If you’re exploring low-GWP alternatives or need guidance on specifying F-Gas compliant chillers, the team at Applied Thermal Control is here to help. Our experts can support you in navigating the regulation and selecting equipment that meets both environmental and performance goals.

Get in touch today!