Recently, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued Final Rule 26 under its Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) program, updating a list of new acceptable alternative refrigerants to promote environmental protection and reduce damage to the ozone layer. This policy is a key component of the Clean Air Act (CAA) aimed at reducing the use of substances that may harm the ozone layer.
Background
Under the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act, the U.S. is gradually phasing out hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), and recently, restrictions were set for the use of high global warming potential (GWP) HFCs in over 40 types of products and equipment in the foam, aerosols, refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat pump industries (October 24, 2023, 88 FR 73098). These final rules support the transition from HFCs to other alternatives.
Content of Final Rule 26
- Lists 10 refrigerants as acceptable, subject to use conditions
- Modifies use conditions for R-290 (propane)
- Incorporates by reference latest version of UL 60335-2-89, ASHRAE 15-2022, and ASHRAE 34-2022
- Exempts R-290 in refrigerated food processing and dispensing equipment from the CAA section 608 venting prohibition
Covered Industrial Sectors
- Refrigeration & Air Conditioning
Affected Groups
- Chemical producers
- Equipment manufacturers
- Commercial and consumer end users of equipment and products using refrigerants
- Service technicians
According to the pre-release content on May 28, the specific details of SNAP’s Final Rule 26 are as follows:
This rule will take effect 30 days after its official publication in the Federal Register, at which time all relevant industries must comply with the new regulations to ensure adherence to environmental standards and to promote the transition to eco-friendly solutions.
