The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a new rule to sharply limit domestic production and use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), highly potent greenhouse gases commonly used in refrigerators and air conditioners.
Announced on September 23, 2021, the new rule applies to The American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act enacted by Congress in December 2020. The AIM Act directs EPA to phase down production and consumption of HFCs by 85% below baseline levels by 2036 using an HFC allowance allocation and trading system. This is part of a global phaseout designed to slow global warming. (See fact sheet for more information on the new rule.)
The rule, set to take effect in October, is expected to reduce harmful emissions by the equivalent of 4.5 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide by 2050, a total similar to three years of emissions from the U.S. power sector, according to the EPA’s FAQs.
“Cutting these climate ‘super pollutants’ protects our environment, strengthens our economy, and demonstrates that America is back when it comes to leading the world in addressing climate change and curbing global warming in the years ahead,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan.
As a reminder, EPA’s Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) regularly updates lists of acceptable and unacceptable substitutes for each of the major industrial use sectors, including refrigeration and air conditioning.
Compliance for new construction and retrofitting is evolving rapidly. EES is dedicated to partnering with clients to navigate and excel during this time of increased focus on climate and healthy built environments.
To learn how EES can help your business stay in compliance, email me at tom@eesolutions.net or call 215-704-1506.