The European Commission has rejected calls for an early review of the F-gas Regulation (EU) 2024/573, despite industry concerns about its implications for the European heat pump and refrigeration sectors. Responding to a written question from MEP Dan-Ștefan Motreanu, the Commission stated it would maintain the planned 2030 evaluation timeline. The move has significant ramifications for manufacturers and suppliers across 20 Member States, who face uncertainty in long-term investment planning due to the scheduled hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) phaseout.
F-Gas Regulation and Its Impact on Manufacturing
Regulation (EU) 2024/573, adopted in February 2024, introduces a quota-based phaseout of HFCs used in refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat pump systems. These gases, known for their high global warming potential, are central to many industrial cooling applications. According to MEP Motreanu, the regulation risks undermining European competitiveness, especially as over 250 manufacturing sites are involved in the heat pump sector alone.
Motivated by Article 35(5) of the regulation, which defers major decisions on the phaseout until 2030, Motreanu urged the European Commission to reconsider the timeline and initiate a review by 2025 or 2026. He argued that the lack of clarity hinders manufacturers from committing to future-proof production lines.
Commission Emphasises Policy Stability
Commissioner Hoekstra responded on behalf of the Commission, stating, “A review at this moment, one year after the regulation has been put in place, would remove this planning certainty for companies.” He reiterated that the regulation sends a “clear signal” to green technology manufacturers and supports innovation in climate-aligned sectors.
The Commission's position is grounded in the aim to avoid destabilising regulatory expectations and to allow time for technological alternatives to mature before the 2030 reassessment.
Strategic Considerations for Stakeholders
Manufacturers and value chain operators should note that the regulation offers both risks and opportunities. On one hand, firms reliant on HFCs face significant operational adjustments. On the other, those investing in alternative refrigerants or green cooling technologies may benefit from early mover advantages and growing market demand.
